Opening match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Photo credit: Twitter
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is being held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Indeed, the country of Felix Houphouët BOIGNY, the international Didier DROGBA and my iron lady is hosting the thirty-fourth (34) African Cup of Nations. It will take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024. What can we expect from the African Cup of Nations? It’s about emotion and the opportunity for football lovers to have fun, discover the country of hospitality and support their favorite teams.
The competing countries
This is a football competition bringing together countries, which have obtained their qualifying ticket to participate. For the year 2023, there are twenty-four (24) countries competing, namely the host country, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Senegal, Egypt, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Guinea Conakry, Algeria, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Angola, Nigeria, Zambia, Guinea Bissau, Tanzania, Namibia, and Mali.
We can see a rich representation of countries. For example, there are countries from West, Central, North and Southern Africa. This can only guarantee a beautiful ceremony with so much diversity.
The opening ceremony
Family photo of the Senegalese delegation. Photo credit: Facebook
As planned, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations began on Saturday January 13, 2024 at the Ebimpé stadium in Abidjan. This stadium is located in the north of the Ivorian capital. It is versatile with a capacity of 60,000 seats, intended to host football, rugby and athletics competitions.
It is in this magnificent building that the opening ceremony. She was simply stunning. Indeed, the public was entitled to performances by artists. For example, I can cite that of the Ivorian singer Josey, the singers Dadju and Tayc and the group Magic System with Yemi Aladé and Mohamed Ramadan. Likewise, the choreography featured captivated the attention of African spectators. It was very beautiful, well made and the colors were harmonious.
In addition, the culture was there. Indeed, I traveled inexpensively between all the Ivorian cultures. From East to West via North and South, we saw everything. For example, there were traditional masks, outfits, dances and music. Which leaves ample opportunity for spectators to imagine future matches.
The breathtaking matches
The Ghana team. Photo credit: Facebook
Since the kick-off of the first match at the Ebimpé stadium, which pitted Ivory Coast against Guinea Bissau, the players have only taken the supporters on the roller coaster. Indeed, it is possible to see goals scored in the second (02) minutes, in the sixth (06) minutes as was the case for Egypt or Senegal. The teams from the different nations are determined to bring the cup home.
The spectacle that is offered is simply captivating and makes you want to follow the next one. However, it is clear that the high heat has a negative impact during matches scheduled for the afternoon. Indeed, the players’ efforts are barely visible. Many fall and replacements are incessant for certain teams.
Two players from the Senegalese team. Photo credit: Facebook
In addition, break times are long. This has the effect of extending added time and making matches boring. What can we do against mother nature? She always imposes her rights and adaptation is the only thing to do. So far, past teams have been the stuff of dreams and supporters expect more from them.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is a competition that has become essential in world football competitions. Since 1957, it has, in fact, proven itself and we notice that Africans support their teams more and more. The countries are present, the main players are involved and the matches are extraordinary. Looking forward to watching the last match and looking forward to the next one.