Who Lifts the AFCON Trophy?

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The African Cup of Nations is the largest football fiesta in the continent and is held in a high esteem by the countries that participate in it. It has over the years brought joy and pride to the people of Africa and biannually attracts the continents finest to decide who the best in the round leather game is. 

The 2022 edition hosted by Cameroon has been plagued by inconsistencies and bad officiating by Referees with the most famous being the blunder by Zambian Referee Janny Sakizwe who ended a match twice in a single game. The reckless way with which the yellow card has been brandished by the Referees leaves a sore taste in the mouth and succeeded in denting the good image of the competition.   

Burkina Faso
The poor decisions by the way, did not stop teams from showing the strength of character and will Africa is known for. Teams like Comoros, Gambia, Gabon, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Burkina Faso and the other minnows of African football rose to the occasion and were poised to prove that the days of minnows  in football is over. 

Ndidi and Iheanacho of Nigeria Super Eagles

The Super Eagles of Nigeria came to the tournament in great style, technically strong and disciplined but lacked the services of a good striker and that eventually was their waterloo. The other big teams like Egypt, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Senegal were all present with top notch personalities like Mohammed Salah, Sadio Mane, Nicholas Pepe and the rest but their performances have been below expectations apart from Nigeria who was dramatically knocked out by Tunisia in a controversial match in which Alex Iwobi saw a red card which in the opinion of many football lovers is not supposed to be. The handball by a Tunisian defender at the Tunisian’s 18 yard box that was overlooked by the referee and the VAR was also frowned at by fans. 

To many observers, Cameroon are having a good tournament because they have been placed in a group that comprised teams of lesser quality. It is yet to be seen if they will keep the momentum when the game hits up at the quarter final and semi-final stages. If they do, then the Cup is theirs to lose.

Cameroon led by Aboubakar

Egypt and Morocco have managed to remain in the rating at the on-going tournament, but it was Egypt who sealed a place at the semi-finals after overcoming a spirited Morocco through the help of their talismanic captain, Mohammed Salah who showed glimpses of what he is known for when it mattered most. 

Mo Salah of Egypt

Senegal have had a below average outing but has managed to keep their heads above the water. How far they go from here is yet to be seen. Burkina Faso on their part looks to continue their impressive run and like in 2012, they might surprise Africa again by getting to the final of the tournament and this time, might win it. It remains to be seen who lifts the trophy on the 6th of February 2022. Fingers crossed.

Sadio Mane of Senegal

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