The Africa Cup of Nations is something to celebrate, and learn from
This week, Africa's most beloved tournament, the Africa Cup of Nations, kicked off in Côte d'Ivoire, the western region of the continent where soccer holds the most important place in sport.
There reside the legendary superpowers of Nigeria, Morocco, Ghana, Algeria and the defending champions of Senegal, who boast some of the most potent talent on the pitch.
But AFCON is not only about stars — it is as much about the fans and lovers of the game which make it so rich and full of life. That is something the world of sports can learn from.
African and global Football legend Didier Drogba in the stadium before the opening game. <br><br>See how much he is loved. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFCON2023?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFCON2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFCON?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFCON</a> <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/sPsjA1CaAa">pic.twitter.com/sPsjA1CaAa</a>
The goal celebrations, enthusiastic supporters and the music alone are reasons to tune in. AFCON, which comes around every two years, is my favourite tournament and I wish it was available to watch on TV like the Euros.
My friend, Maher Mezahi, is covering the tournament in Abidjan. In a recent article Mezahi wrote that "African football and the Africa Cup of Nations informs my understanding of the African continent." He writes the tournament unites the continent for four weeks and fans learn about each other's countries and customs.
Didier Drogba, one of the most prominent African superstars and a Chelsea FC legend, has used used his country's love of sport to stop a civil war. As he visits home for the tournament, one can't help but think about how he used soccer as a vehicle of connection and understanding
