As an African who loves football, I view the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a representation of the continentβs highest expression of the game. Few events on the global sports calendar bring Africa together the way AFCON does, because when it is on, the continent slows down, families gather, streets empty and national colors take over daily life.
For those of us who grew up watching it from the streets of Harare, Zimbabwe, AFCON has never been just football.
It is identity, pride and belonging, passed down through generations and carried in memory long after the final whistle.
That is why the 2025 edition in Morocco left me unsettled in ways I did not expect.
Champions crowned, but unease lingers
Senegal deservedly lifted the trophy on Sunday, beating hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in Rabat to claim their second AFCON title.
Pape Gueyeβs winning goal was a moment of genuine quality in a final that otherwise struggled for fluency and rhythm.
Yet long before that strike hit the net, the tournament had
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