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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
<\/div>\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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\"\"\n
Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\n
<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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\"\"\n
Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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<\/p>\n\n

#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: How Ugo Udezue Went From The NBA To First African Olympic Outfit Maker<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n

#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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\"Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger at his foundation launch (Photo Credit: @ToniRuediger\/twitter.com)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: How Ugo Udezue Went From The NBA To First African Olympic Outfit Maker<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

<\/figure>\n
<\/figure>\n
\"\"\n
Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea Football Club recently launched a foundation in Sierra Leone. Having been in the pipeline over the past few months, Antonio Rudiger believed a foundation was the best way to give back to the nation of his origin. This he says is also just the beginning for the Antonio Rudiger for Sierra Leone Foundation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger at his foundation launch (Photo Credit: @ToniRuediger\/twitter.com)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: How Ugo Udezue Went From The NBA To First African Olympic Outfit Maker<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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<\/p>\n\n

#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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One of Africa's biggest assets is the plethora of African diasporans who are willing to give back to the continent. Whether it be through remittances, problem-solving startups, public service, or foundations, African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans giving back to Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea Football Club recently launched a foundation in Sierra Leone. Having been in the pipeline over the past few months, Antonio Rudiger believed a foundation was the best way to give back to the nation of his origin. This he says is also just the beginning for the Antonio Rudiger for Sierra Leone Foundation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger at his foundation launch (Photo Credit: @ToniRuediger\/twitter.com)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: How Ugo Udezue Went From The NBA To First African Olympic Outfit Maker<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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One of Africa's biggest assets is the plethora of African diasporans who are willing to give back to the continent. Whether it be through remittances, problem-solving startups, public service, or foundations, African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans giving back to Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea Football Club recently launched a foundation in Sierra Leone. Having been in the pipeline over the past few months, Antonio Rudiger believed a foundation was the best way to give back to the nation of his origin. This he says is also just the beginning for the Antonio Rudiger for Sierra Leone Foundation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger at his foundation launch (Photo Credit: @ToniRuediger\/twitter.com)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: How Ugo Udezue Went From The NBA To First African Olympic Outfit Maker<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1487406460866813955?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Rudiger, 28, is a German international who was born in Berlin, Germany, to a Sierra Leonean mother. Despite being born outside of Africa, he has developed a close bond with the West African nation. When he landed in Sierra Leone during the Premier League's break, he was greeted like a hero by ecstatic supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1485912276746051585?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Antonio Rudiger has supported many causes in his 'second home'. In 2020, he donated $101,000 (\u00a375,000) to support Free Quality Education in Sierra Leone. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

More recently, he collaborated with Big Shoe<\/a> to help 11 physically challenged children with medical operations. In January, he shared a post on social media thanking Big Shoe for their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/ToniRuediger\/status\/1482010875238268935?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Reactions to the Antonio Rudiger Foundation Launch <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After launching the charitable foundation, Antonio Rudiger pledged $40,000 towards sports development and poverty eradication programs. Reacting to the launch, Rudiger spoke to journalists after the fundraiser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt's a huge pleasure for me and my family to be here, I don't see myself as a superstar because my parents always tell me to be humble \u2014 that's why I'm here today. To me this foundation means a lot, because I don't want it to be a one-man show, I want it to be something we all \u2014 most importantly the young generation and the community \u2014 can look up to.\u201c <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: <\/strong>Returnee Spotlight: See How Ujiri Masai Wants To Make Africa World\u2019s Basketball Capital<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other fans and sports commentators took to social media to also pass their comments on the launch. Here are some of the reactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Salonemessenger\/status\/1487535465200852994?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/AlhajiM63935010\/status\/1486971878828871682?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/TypicalBlue_24\/status\/1486429231261405192?s=20&t=EhzWdkIR8h-RbFV3ymuVJw\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Can African Diasporan Foundations Spur Development in Africa? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Recently, Ujiri Masai launched the Giant of Africa Foundation, a foundation also geared to promote sports development. This follows in the footsteps of Kei Kamara, Peagie Woobay, Christine Wawira, and several other African diasporans who are also committed to developing Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Certainly, there is a case for the argument that African diasporan foundations augment governmental efforts to achieve development. Through these foundations, African diasporans can contribute to healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, all of which are key indicators for development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, these foundations also help with infrastructure building when given the opportunity. Thus, they are undoubtedly beneficial to Africa's journey to development\u2014and like Antonio Rudiger, if more African diasporans can give back to Africa, the continent will be strongly positioned for development.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Antonio Rudiger Is Showing African Diasporans How To Give Back To Africa","post_excerpt":"African diasporans continue to show how much they can help Africa. Antonio Rudiger has now joined the long list of African diasporans who are giving back to Africa.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"antonio-rudiger-is-showing-african-diasporans-how-to-give-back-to-africa","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 21:26:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331740","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":331563,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-02-08 13:00:00","post_content":"\n

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Senegal win #AFCON2021, their first-ever AFCON in (Photo Credit: The Independent)<\/em><\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And so it\u2019s over. After 28 days of intense matches that started with 24 teams, the Teranga Lions of Senegal are now African champions. The West African football giants have won #AFCON2021, making it their first-ever win at the tournament. Senegal came close in 2002 and 2019, but never crossed the finish line. Now, they have done so in fine fashion at the Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9.\u00a0<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Road to the Trophy<\/h2>\n

Pitted in group B against Guinea, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the Teranga Lions made light work of the group, qualifying as winners. Having won Group A with 5 points, they overcame Cape Verde Island in the Round of 16. Victories against Equatorial Guinea and Burkina Faso helped them book their place at the showpiece in Yaounde.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The #AFCON2021 final saw big names pitched against each other. Senegal's Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikh Kouyate, Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Ismaila Sarr squared up against Mohamed Salah's Pharaoh's. The encounter was not without drama as Senegal won a penalty in the early stages. However, Sadio Mane failed to convert.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After 120 minutes of missed chances, the game ended in a tie. Eventually, Senegal bagged their first-ever AFCON trophy after a 4-2 win on penalties. It was redemption at last for Aliou Cisse, the Senegalese coach, who captained the Senegalese team to AFCON 2002 and missed the decisive penalty that condemned the Teranga Lions to 2nd place at that tournament. Finally, Senegal had crossed the line that the 2002 generation had failed to.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=RXFuWOd1hkA<\/p>\n

Key Stats From #AFCON2021\u00a0<\/h3>\n

After 52 exciting games in Cameroon, Vincent Aboubakar topped the goal chart with 8 goals. This places him at par with Laurent Pokou as the top scorer at a single AFCON tournament. Sadio Mane picked up the award for the Player of The Tournament, while his compatriot Edouard Mendy, picked the award for the Goalkeeper of The Tournament. Meanwhile, Egyptian keeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski, was named Man of the Match for the Final.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reactions to Senegal's Win\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Football fans and sports commentators have taken to social media to express their reactions to Senegal's win. Here are some of the interesting analyses of the tournament.\u00a0<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/piersmorgan\/status\/1490443711251038210?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/addojunr\/status\/1490681170077626376?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/Reuters\/status\/1490779900197806082?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/korl__\/status\/1490590586197487618?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/twitter.com\/SundayOOliseh\/status\/1490444593090990087?s=20&t=C81loyAKoQAI5HVgtVfQVA<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q6uDInSiVWs<\/p>\n

ALSO READ: How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Will Senegal Triumph Over Egypt for a Second Time?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When Emmanuel Adebayor drew Senegal v Egypt<\/a> as the third fixture of the World Cup 2022 final playoffs, he did not know he was setting up a rematch. Interestingly, after locking horns at the #AFCON2021 final, Senegal will once against face Egypt in March in a two-legged affair. The winner takes one of Africa's five tickets to Qatar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Egypt, reeling from the pain of losing out on 2 of the last three AFCON titles, will be out for blood against the Senegalese. Mohamed Elneny already expressed a desire to play in Qatar, as this is the first-ever World Cup on Arab soil. Whether the Pharaohs can avenge their #AFCON2021 final loss is a fate only time can tell.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

However, Sadio Mane and co are fully aware that anything short of qualification would be a disaster. President Macky Sall declared Monday 7th February 2022 a national holiday for their triumph. Next month, however, they risk missing out on football's biggest showpiece if, like the Proverbial Israelites, the Pharaohs do not let them go.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n","post_title":"After Winning #AFCON2021, Can Senegal Do It On the World Stage?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"after-winning-afcon2021-can-senegal-do-it-on-the-world-stage","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 16:04:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=331563","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":330278,"post_author":"10055","post_date":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-25 12:26:01","post_content":"\n\nThe die is cast. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed the draw for the final playoff fixtures for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ten teams will lock horns for five places to represent Africa in Qatar.\n\nThe draw, which took place on Saturday 22 January 2022 in Douala, Cameroon, saw Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, and Morocco in Pot 1. On the other hand, Pot 2 contained Ghana, Algeria, DR Congo, Egypt, and Mali. Following the draw, Liverpool teammates, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will slug it out as Senegal battles Egypt. Consequently, one of the African heavyweights will miss out on a flight to Qatar come November.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_330280\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1262\"]\"World Emmanuel Adebayor conducts the World Cup 2022 draw (Photo Credit: @CAF_Online\/Twitter)<\/em>[\/caption]\n\nEgypt and Senegal, both of which are still competing in the Cup of Nations in Cameroon, were two of the five African nations that competed in the last finals in Russia. Elsewhere, Algeria and Ghana were dealt challenging fixtures with Cameroon and Nigeria, respectively. This is coming on the heels of a humiliating early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Morocco finds itself pitted against DR Congo\u2014that failed to qualify for the Nations Cup in Cameroon.\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0How Cameroon Businesses Are Winning From The AFCON 2022 Games<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nAfter being matched with Tunisia, Mali has a chance to qualify for the first time. However, they will play their home game on neutral territory, as they did not have suitable stadiums in the last qualifying round and had to play in Morocco.\n

Road to the third qualifying round<\/h3>\nThe ten nations were all winners of their respective groups in the second round of African World Cup 2022 qualifiers, which took place between September and November. In March, they will compete in a two-leg encounter to determine which five teams would advance to the finals. The specific dates of the matches will be confirmed in the coming days, according to the CAF. Here is a recap of the draws.\n\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yH634QkFGRk\n\n\n\n \n

Reactions to the Draw<\/h2>\nSeveral reactions are making the rounds all over conventional and social media since the World Cup 2022 draw. While many are cursing their luck, others are relishing the big fixtures that await. See some reactions from commentators below.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/mohammedali_93\/status\/1484917154277376001?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Yaa_Serwaa1\/status\/1484911684787580935?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KafuiDey\/status\/1484916457028964353?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0AFCON 2021 Knockout Preview: Who Will Win The Trophy?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/KnowledgeKill\/status\/1484921335809818626?s=20\n\nWith the Africa Cup of Nations in the knockout phase, reactions from the national team coaches have been few and far between. Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, called the Ghana v Nigeria match 'a fixture to relish'.\n

Who will Represent Africa at the World Cup 2022?<\/h2>\nAfrican football is famous for being the world's capital for football upsets. With Morocco going against DR Congo, that looks like the easiest fixture on paper, and so many will fancy the Atlas Lions to go through. For Cameroon v Algeria, anything can happen. The Desert Foxes are low on confidence following their abysmal run at AFCON 2021, but they have never failed to qualify for the World Cup since 2006. The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful team at the World Cup. So, some past pedigree may count for them.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nNigeria v Ghana is a real nail-biter, with both nations crashing out of AFCON 2021 early. The West African nations are fierce footballing rivals, and as such, passion and determination may cut it where skill fails to. Ghana, regular World Cup qualifiers in the 21st century, will fancy their chances. Nigeria, on the other hand, will be looking to pile more misery on its neighbors.\n\nSalah v Mane makes for an interesting matchup, as Africa's finest go against each other. With Egypt looking lackluster in the recent past, Senegal will be looking to trump the pharaohs. Egypt can go through, but they will have to put in two indomitable performances to do so. Mali v Tunisia is also another interesting game where anything can happen. Their very controversial game at AFCON 2021 grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. Both teams will be hoping that their World Cup 2022 qualifiers will be different.\n\nAt a glance, it is easy to see that West Africa continues to dominate the continent in the game of soccer. In case you haven't noticed already, West and North Africa continue to dominate the soccer scene on the continent. Interestingly, both have four teams in the last ten while Southern and Eastern Africa have none.","post_title":"FIFA World Cup 2022 Draw: Who Will Represent Africa In Qatar?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"fifa-world-cup-2022-draw-who-will-represent-africa-in-qatar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 15:58:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=330278","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":329684,"post_author":"10046","post_date":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-19 09:36:00","post_content":"\n\nThe African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2022 kicked off on the 9th of January with 24 out of the 54 countries in Africa being represented. The game which will feature a hand full of international players is expected to be exciting and as always full of surprises. Before we talk about how this year's AFCON game is going so far, here\u2019s a brief recap of what\u2019s been happening in Africa\u2019s biggest football tournament.\n\n[caption id=\"attachment_329815\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"830\"]\"AFCON<\/a> A glimpse of the AFCON 2021 opening ceremony in Cameroon (Photo credit: Twitter@MashSammy)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

AFCON on a Reel<\/h2>\nThe first African Cup of Nations game was held 65 years ago in 1957 with only 3 teams participating in the tournament. By 1998, they were 16 teams in the tournament. However, at the end of 2017, the game was expanded to accommodate 24 national teams. So far, 14 countries have won the AFCON championship including Algeria who won the cup in 2019 making them the defending champions this year.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Postponement Of The 2021 African Cup Of Nations And What This Means For 2022<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nEgypt, the most successful team of the tournament, has taken home 7 titles. This includes the first-ever recorded championship title in AFCON. Coming in second place is Cameroon with 5 AFCON titles. Despite their success, Cameroon is not so lucky when it comes to hosting the AFCON games.\n\nHowever, 2019 should have been a different year for the Central African country but a unanimous decision by CAF stripped Cameroon of its hosting rights and gave it to Egypt. It was decided that Cameroon should host the games in 2021, but again, this was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At long last, Cameroon gets to host the AFCON tournament. This makes it 50 years since the country last hosted the game. Like many other African nations gracing the game, they have a lot to prove.\n
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Highlights of the AFCON 2022 Tournament: Surprises and Controversies<\/h2>\nThe 24 teams participating in this year's AFCON games are divided into six groups of four teams each. We are down to the last group games and there have been so many surprises along the way. With the number of international players participating in the games, expectations are high and so is the pressure.\n\nAll eyes are on the likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrex, Edouard Mendy (2021 FIFA Men's Best Goalkeeper<\/a>) amongst others. But, is having more international players an advantage? One could think so, but as we said, AFCON is full of surprises, and here are some of the biggest we've seen so far.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Surprises in AFCON 2022 so far<\/h2>\n

Egypt's 1 - 0 Loss to Nigeria<\/h3>\nAll eyes were on Mo Salah but Iheanacho stole the day. No doubt Egypt had the better team (or so it seemed) in the match against Nigeria. However, Iheanacho\u2019s goal 30 minutes into the game gave Nigerian an early lead. But, rather than being spurred into action, the Egyptian team seemed rather distraught by the goal. This was contrary to what was expected from the African football giants.\n\nOn the Nigerian side, Iheanacho\u2019s goal kicked the team into beast mode. Afterward, it seemed as if they suddenly realized that winning the formidable Pharaohs was possible. Doubling up their defenses the Nigerian team kept the Egyptians at bay. Salah never made it far enough to equalize. All it took was one goal to make everyone realize that this is AFCON and anything was possible.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/referencedaily\/status\/1481242993898274820?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a010 Best African National Football Teams In The Last Decade<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Senegals\u2019 Goalless Draw Against Guinea<\/h3>\nThe 2019 AFCON runner-up, Senegal, put up a less than impressive show in their match against Guinea. A similar situation took place at Bafoussam stadium when the Senegalese team faced off against Zimbabwe. But for a stroke of luck that came in the form of a late penalty, the game might have ended a goalless draw.\n\nSince Senegal is among the highest-ranking football team in Africa, their performance in the last two games has been below par. Senegalese coach, Aliou Cisse cites the impact of COVID as one of the biggest setbacks facing the team as most of the star players tested positive. These include star goalkeeper Ed0uard Mendy and defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Nevertheless, the Senegalese team was still expected to put up an impressive performance.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/Joe77213382\/status\/1482004255024332804?s=20\n\n\n

Algerias' Goalless Draw Against Sierra Leone<\/h3>\nPerhaps, the biggest surprise so far was Algerias' goalless draw against Sierra Leone. This was expected to be an easy win for Algeria because Sierra Leone hasn't participated in the tournament in 25 years. Secondly, Sierra Leone's team could barely be compared to their Algerian counterparts which had at least two famous players of international repute.\n\nRiyad Mahrez, captain of the Algerian team plays for Manchester City while Islam Slimani plays for Lyon. As it turned out, the Algerian team didn't capitalize on these advantages. However, with the goalless draw against Sierra Leone, Algeria extends its unbeaten record to 35 matches. As we head into the last round of games, the defending champions will need something special to make it beyond the group stage.\n
ALSO READ:\u00a015 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/JABULANIXI\/status\/1480884183996243975?s=20\n

Controversies In AFCON 2022<\/h2>\nOn the 12th of January, Tunisia kicked off its AFCON 2022 games against Mali at the group stage. However, 85 minutes into the game and one goal later, the referee blew the final whistle signifying the end of the match. The error was promptly corrected. However, the referee followed the first error by blowing his whistle a second time, a few minutes too early. This sparked an uproar especially among the Tunisians who were desperately seeking an equalizing goal.\n\nBut the drama didn't end there, CAF ordered the match to be resumed and replaced the referee as well. However, the Tunisian team was nowhere to be seen, and so the result stood. The referee at the center of all this is no other than Janny Sikazwe. Surprisingly, this wasn't his first time being at the center of a major controversy.\n
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<\/div>\nIn 2018 Janny Sikazwe was suspended by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This was because an allegation of corruption was brought against him during the CAF Championship game between Esperance and Primiero Agosto. However, the suspension was lifted after a disciplinary hearing cleared Sikazwe of all allegations.\n\nSikazwe who hails from Zambia has an impressive record officiating in major games like the CAF Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and the FIFA World Cup. So, what happened during the match between Tunisia and Mali is anybody's guess, and here are some of the reactions that trailed the event.\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/bakaki_daniel\/status\/1481635014701768704?s=20\n\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/footballdaily\/status\/1481290617858703364?s=20\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0Algeria Wins 2019 African Cup Of Nations. Here Is How Fans Reacted<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nhttps:\/\/twitter.com\/DavidAjuna1\/status\/1481281734746464257?s=20\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\nThe Africa Cup of Nations is still at the group stage and this means more surprises are underway. It seems the Egyptian team is finally warmed up after conceding to Nigeria in the first leg of the group games. With a 1 - 0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, Egypt is up 3 points giving them a better chance of making it to the knockout rounds. But as always, AFCON is full of surprises and while we wait to see what surprises lie ahead, we'd like to know who you think would take home the trophy this year.","post_title":"The Biggest Controversies and Surprises In AFCON 2022 After The First Round Of Games","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"biggest-controversies-surprises-in-afcon-2022-after-first-round-of-games","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-16 16:33:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=329684","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":402874,"post_author":"10053","post_date":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2022-01-01 11:00:00","post_content":"\n\n \n\n[caption id=\"attachment_328623\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"AFCON The African Cup of Nations (Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The countdown is on for the 2022 African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2022), set to hold in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022. This is the 33rd edition of the competition. It was initially scheduled to take place between June and July of 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) pushed it back to January and February 2022 due to COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the new Omicron variant is threatening the competition once again. CAF has said it would import its laboratory and bypass local healthcare facilities to test players during the tournament. Fans will also be required to show proof of vaccination and present a negative COVID-19 test result<\/a>\u00a0to attend\u00a0matches.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Young African Soccer Players That Thrilled Us In 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

Why AFCON 2022 is still called AFCON 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After the successful hosting of the competition in Egypt in 2019, in which Algeria won against Senegal by 1 goal to nil in the final, the next edition was to be held after two years, which is the normal routine.<\/p>\n

It is essential to know that the preliminary round as well as two matchdays were played between October 9 and November 19, 2019. However, the qualifier matches were then postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa.<\/p>\n

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Furthermore, CAF decided to push the competition to 2022 after a special meeting, but the name AFCON 2021 was to be retained. On March 31, 2021, CAF decided that the new date for the African Cup of Nations would be January 9 to February 6, 2022, exactly a year after its original kick-off date.<\/p>\n\n

The qualifying<\/span> teams <\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 24 teams have qualified for the forthcoming AFCON 2022. Besides the host and the defending champions, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal (who finished second in the 2019 edition), Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Morocco are among the 24 teams that have qualified.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: African Vibes\u2019 10 All-Time Greatest African Soccer Players<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\nOther teams making up the 24 teams are Guinea, Comoros, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone. The 24 qualifying teams will be divided into six groups with 4 teams in each group. The top two in each group will proceed to the knockout stage of the competition. The Olembe Stadium in Yaound\u00e9 will host the first match of the competition between Cameroon and Burkina Faso.\n

Who do you think will win AFCON 2022?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The debate on who will win AFCON 2022 is on. The usual set of nations capable of winning the tournament will rumble on till the tournament begins. Nonetheless, our AFCON 2022 winner predictions will dive deeper into those that will likely win. We will evaluate them based on their previous achievements and how well they performed during the qualifiers. So, who will take the crown in Yaounde come February?<\/p>\n

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#1: Egypt<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328624\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1600\"]\"Egypt The Pharaohs (Photo credit: Complete Sports)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Pharaohs need no introduction in the continent having won AFCON seven times. They are default challengers to the tournament. Also, the country remained unbeaten during their six qualifying games due to their beautiful team play. Egypt is in the same group (GROUP D) that includes Nigeria. There is no doubt that the AFCON 2022 winner could very well be from this group.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Hossam El-Badry\u2019s men are a well-equipped side that would be bolstered by arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohammed Salah. Winning every match in AFCON 2022 will hinge on how they can depend on togetherness and unity which has served them so well in the past.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ: 15 Foreign-Born Soccer Players That Chose To Play For Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>2: Nigeria<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328625\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"810\"]\"The The Super Eagles of Nigeria (Photo credit: KingFuT)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Nigeria also needs no introduction to AFCON, having been victorious three times in the past. The last time they won the tournament was in 2019. The Super Eagles have been clinical during their qualifying matches, and they didn\u2019t lose any game.<\/p>\n

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group D alongside their longtime rivals Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau. On paper, it is expected that they should progress comfortably. The talented core of players currently in their ranks could easily turn out to become a golden generation in Nigerian football history. The coaching problem in the team will likely be their biggest setback.<\/p>\n

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#3: Algeria<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328626\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1200\"]\"Algeria Algeria national team (Photo credit: The Guardian Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Algeria remains the tournament\u2019s favorite. However, the defending champions are still enjoying their 27-game unbeaten run which will not please Group E rivals Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Equatorial Guinea. The Fennec Foxes have won the AFCON tournament twice. The first one was in 1990 and the second in 2019. However, they will be looking to become just the fourth nation after Ghana, Egypt, and Cameroon to successfully defend their AFCON title.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, Algeria will naturally look up to captain Riyad Mahrez\u2019s decisiveness and record goalscorer Islam Slimani. Algeria showed its technicality during the AFCON 2019 tournament and also the AFCON 2022 qualifying matches. Nonetheless, a united effort should once again be good enough to conquer the best in Africa as they chase Italy\u2019s longest unbeaten record in international football.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 African Boxers Of 2021<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#4: Cameroon<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328629\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1920\"]\"Cameroon The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon (Photo credit: Goal.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Indomitable Lions have come a long way since Clarence Seedorf\u2019s unsuccessful tenure in 2019. However, the five-time AFCON champions will have raucous home support to push them throughout the tournament. But Toni Concei\u00e7\u00e3o\u2019s men would need to recreate their heroics of 2017 and deliver a sensational win in front of their home crowd.<\/p>\n

However, Cameroon won five of their six AFCON qualifying matches after losing 3-1 to Cape Verde. Cameroon is well-equipped to once again stun the continent. They will look up to Andr\u00e9 Onana, who just returned from global suspension, captain Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa, and the dynamic Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.<\/p>\n

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#<\/span>5: Ghana<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328630\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Ghana Ghana national team (Photo credit: Modern Ghana)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

It is essential to know that Ghana is surely a great contender for AFCON 2022. The four-time AFCON champions will be looking to win it for the fifth time. Although they only lost a game during the qualifying matches, they will be hoping to claim the trophy once more.<\/p>\n

Ghana is also blessed with talented players such as Felix Afena Gyan, Thomas Teye Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Dede Ayew. Nonetheless, Coach Milovan Rajevac will be hoping the Black Stars clinch the title with his 30-man provisional squad. Their first match is against Morocco.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Returnee Spotlight: How Mark Doumba Quit Tennis To Foster Africa Digital Solution<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#6: Ivory Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328631\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"780\"]\"Ivory Ivory Coast national team (Photo credit: EveryEvery NG)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Ivory Coast has won the AFCON tournament twice. Out of their six qualifying games, they only lost one, which was against Ethiopia. The country\u2019s star men, Wilfried Zaha, Nicolas Pepe, and Eric Bailly, are among the Premier League players included in Ivory Coast\u2019s provisional 28-player squad for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The team will be a tight contender as they will be looking to get the AFCON 2022 title.<\/p>\n\n

#<\/span>7: Senegal<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328632\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"905\"]\"Senegal Senegal national team (Photo credit: Daily Post Nigeria)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Senegal captured the imagination of Africa in 2019 when their group of superstars got close to clinching their first-ever AFCON triumph. The defeat to Algeria two years ago hurt their world-class performers and the Teranga Lions will have retribution firmly in their minds in Cameroon. Having lost the 2019 finals, Aliou Ciss\u00e9\u2019s men are determined to right their wrongs.<\/p>\n

They showed how good they are during the qualifying matches by not losing a match. The team boast of arguably the best keeper in Africa if not the world, \u00c9douard Mendy. Also, having the likes of Sadio Man\u00e9, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyat\u00e9, and Isma\u00efla Sarr, makes this team more than a mere challenger.<\/p>\n

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#8: Morocco<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328634\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"820\"]\"The The Morocco national team (Photo credit: Worldsoccer.com)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The last time Morocco won the AFCON was in 1976. However, the Morocco squad will be looking to add more prestige to their ranks by winning AFCON 2022. Also, the Atlas Lions performed well during the qualifiers by scaling through without losing a game. Morocco will be in AFCON 2022 without their star man Hakim Ziyech. Coach Vahid Halilhod\u017ei\u0107\u00a0<\/strong>will be hoping they start on a good note when they face Ghana.<\/p>\n\n

#9: Tunisia<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328635\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1000\"]\"Tunisia Tunisia national team (Photo credit: KingFut)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

The Carthage Eagles also performed well during the qualifying matches\u2014they didn\u2019t lose a game. Although they haven\u2019t won the AFCON before, they will be hoping to get it this time around. Tunisia will begin their AFCON journey on 12 January against Mali, before facing their remaining group opponents Mauritania and Gambia respectively.<\/p>\n\n

ALSO READ:\u00a0Top 10 Largest Stadiums In Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n

#<\/span>10: Mali<\/strong><\/h3>\n[caption id=\"attachment_328641\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1024\"]\"Mali Mali national team (Photo credit: Africanews)<\/em>[\/caption]\n

Mali is also a contender in the AFCON 2022. They played well in the qualifiers - lost just a game out of the six matches. Mali has never won AFCON before, but there will be hoping to conquer Africa this time around. Their first match is against Tunisia, and they need to start on a good note. Write them off at your peril.<\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The AFCON 2022 promises to be exciting as 24 African teams will lock horns. We profiled 10 teams that are top contenders to win the tournament. This isn\u2019t to say other teams that have qualified don\u2019t stand a chance, but the above-listed teams have previous achievements and played well in the qualifiers. So which team do you think will win AFCON 2022, please let\u2019s know in the comment section below.<\/p>","post_title":"Who Do You Think Will Win AFCON 2022?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"who-do-you-think-will-win-afcon","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_modified_gmt":"2024-08-12 15:15:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.africanvibes.com\/?p=328622","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":5},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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