League of Future Stars: Seven former French Ligue 1 players thriving in the Premier League

French Ligue 1 has been the name of the top division in French football league since 2002, before that it was called Division 1. The league in its original form was inaugurated in 1932, two years after professionalism in French football became legal. The first season featured 20 teams, the same number of teams that are included in Ligue 1 today. Ligue 1 is the top tier of the French football league system, one level above the current Ligue 2, and apparently it has been dominated by one team called PSG for many years.

There are a quite number of stars who left the French Ligue and went on to become living legends and some are still playing to build the legacy. In this article we are delighted to cover the stars that left the French Ligue 1 and are still building their careers as living legends, making an impact and leaving a mark that cannot be erased.

Per Mertesacker of Arsenal is challenged by Fabinho Tavares of Monaco during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between AS Monaco and Arsenal at Stade Louis II on March 17, 2015 in Monaco, Monaco.

(March 16, 2015 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

1. Fabinho

Full name: Fabio Henrique Tavares

Nation: Brazil

Club Team: Liverpool FC

Position: Defensive Midfielder

Year of Birth: 1993

Bought from: Monaco

Fabinho, full name Fabio Henrique Tavares, is a patrolling defensive midfielder who agreed a deal to join Liverpool from AS Monaco on May 28, 2018. The midfielder officially became a Red on July 1 and took the No.3 shirt for the team's first pre-season friendly of the summer against Chester FC. Jürgen Klopp preached patience when it came to the Brazilian's adaptation to English football after five seasons in Ligue 1. He would make his debut for the club on September 18, 2018, when he appeared as an injury-time substitute in a 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield in the Champions League. The win over Paris Saint- German was one that will be talked for ages in Liverpool’s football history and it is imperative to note that Fabinho contributed immensely to that memorable win.

Fabinho was born in Sao Paulo in 1993, but his first professional club was Rio side Fluminese. He left there for Rio Ave Portugal in June 2012 without making a first team appearance. However, after just a month in northern Portugal he was loaned to Real Madrid's reserve side Castilla for the 2012-13 season and made his debut towards the end of the season.

He was handed his first start in Liverpool colors against Chelsea in the third round of the League Cup where the Reds were beaten by 2-1. It was towards the end of October, though, where Fabinho began to find his feet in Klopp's side. Man of the Match performances against Red Star Belgrade and Manchester United quickly followed, providing a boost to disappointed fans. A defensive midfielder who can play in either full-back position, Fabinho's versatility was a factor in Jurgen Klopp's decision to sign him with Emre Can's contract expiring in June 2018. Despite not being an attacking player, he scored an impressive 23 goals in 167 Ligue 1 appearances for Monaco over five years. Still coming to terms with Jurgen Klopp's intense fitness and training methods, Fabinho has had to be patient. Notable achievements for Fabinho include but not limited to winning the French Super Cup with AS Monaco in 2017, and the UEFA Champions League and Supercup in the year 2019 as a Liverpool player.

Anthony Martial of Monaco in action during the Emirates Cup match between Valencia and AS Monaco at the Emirates Stadium on August 2, 2014 in London, England.

(Aug. 1, 2014 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

2. Anthony Martial

Full name: Anthony Jordan Martial

Nation: France

Club Team: Manchester United FC

Position: Forward

Year of Birth: 1995

Bought from: AS Monaco

Playing youth football for Les Ulis, Martial began his professional career at Lyon, and then transferred to AS Monaco in 2013 for a fee of €6 million. He was a member of Monaco's squad for two seasons, and signed for Manchester United in 2015 for an initial fee of £36 million which could potentially rise to £57.6 million. This was the highest fee paid for a teenager in football history even before the potential increase. He scored in his first match for the Red Devils and was named the Premier League Player of the Month in his first month in English football.

A youth international for France from under-16 to under-21 level, Martial made his senior debut in 2015. He was named in their squad for UEFA Euro 2016.

On 30 June 2013, AS Monaco announced they had signed Martial to a three-year contract for a fee of €5 million-plus bonuses. On 24 November, he made his first league appearance for the club at the age of 17, replacing Radamel Falcao after 63 minutes and playing a part in Mounir Obbadi's goal which gave victory away to FC Nantes. He scored his first goal for the renowned club on his first start, a 2–0 win over Rennes at the Stade Louis II six days later. His campaign was disrupted by a sprained ankle against Valenciennes in December. On 27 January 2014, he extended his contract until June 2018.

In his second season at Monaco, Martial scored nine goals in 36 Ligue 1 games, starting on 5 October 2014 when he came on as a substitute for Lucas Ocampos, he gained a 1–1 draw at reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain with a last-minute strike from close range. He scored twice against a 10-man Bastia on 13 March 2015 in a 3–0 home victory. On 26 June, he further extended his link with the team until 2019.

On 4 August 2015, Martial scored his first goal in European competition, in a 4–0 home win over BSC Young Boys in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League; Monaco advanced 7–1 on aggregate.

Anthony then joined the Red Devils on transfer deadline day during the summer of 2015 and made his mark by scoring an excellent debut goal as a substitute against Liverpool, which immediately won the love and respect of the fans. That famous strike later won the club’s Goal of the Season award during the annual prize-giving night at Old Trafford, beating off competition from Marcus Rashford.

Martial finished the 2015/16 season as United’s top scorer with 17 goals from 49 appearances and that included a dramatic added-time winner during the FA Cup semi-final victory over Everton, which led to earning a winners’ medal following the 2-1 extra-time win over Crystal Palace in the final. That wrapped up a superb maiden season in which the Reds forward emphasised his massive potential.

The 2016/17 campaign, his first under the management of Jose Mourinho, yielded eight goals from 42 appearances, plus three trophies in the form of the FA Community Shield, EFL Cup and UEFA Europa League. The 2017/18 season, saw the no.11 shift up a gear once more, his explosive pace and instinctive eye for goal making him a key part of United's attacking armory. Either sharing attacking duties with Rashford or being unleashed as part of a front three with Marcus and Lukaku, Martial surpassed his goals total from the previous season. Five goals in United's opening eight games, plus a run of form in January meant that the Frenchman ended the season with 11 goals in all competitions.

Anthony enjoyed a good first half of the 2018/19 season and was voted Player of the Month for October by fans after a series of impressive performances. On 31 January 2019, Martial signed a new contract, keeping him at the club until June 2024, with the option to extend for a further year. Following Romelu Lukaku's move to Inter Milan, he switched back to United's no.9 jersey and quickly got off the mark for 2019/20 season with the second goal in the 4-0 rout of Chelsea at Old Trafford, giving an early indication that he will thrive on the responsibility of playing down the middle and compensating for the lack of the Belgian's goals.

Benjamin Mendy of Monaco in action during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between Manchester City FC and AS Monaco at Etihad Stadium on February 21, 2017 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Feb. 20, 2017 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

3. Benjamin Mendy

Full name: Benjamin Mendy

Nation: France

Club Team: Manchester City FC

Position: Left-back

Year of Birth: 1994

Bought from: AS Monaco

Benjamin Mendy arrived at City from Monaco, signing a five-year deal in July 2017. In the two seasons since, the Frenchman has suffered a number of injury set-backs, but evidenced his quality in 23 appearances in which his high energy, attacking approach to the full-back position thrived.

Mendy began his career with Le Havre, where he played more than 50 league games, before joining Marseille in 2013. He impressed at the Stade Velodrome, making 101 appearances in three seasons and gained a reputation as one of the best full-backs in the French top flight.

His performances earned him a move to Monaco, where he was a key component of Leanardo Jardim’s side’s improvement. His surging runs down the left flank were central to the Red and Whites’ success in the 2016/17 season, claiming the Ligue 1 title and reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League.

It was in Europe where Mendy and Monaco particularly impressed, with notable scalps against City and Borussia Dortmund in the knockout stages, whilst domestically, he was named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year. He enjoyed a strong start to his City career, winning his first five games and keeping four clean sheets in the process, but his debut season was ruined by a knee injury which kept him out until April 2018.

His return saw him selected for France’s 2018 World Cup squad, where Les Bleus were victorious, but his 2018/19 campaign was again hampered by injuries. He made 16 appearances in total and registered five assists as City lifted the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Community shield. Mendy is a World Cup winner, two-time English title winner, English FA Cup winner, English League Cup winner and French Cup winner.

“The 2017/18 season, saw the no.11 shift up a gear once more, his explosive pace and instinctive eye for goal making him a key part of United’s attacking armory. Either sharing attacking duties with Rashford or being unleashed as part of a front three with Marcus and Lukaku..”

— Farai Maringa, FirstTouch Africa

Bernardo Silva of AS Monaco runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and AS Monaco FC at Wembley Stadium on September 14, 2016 in London, England.

(Sept. 13, 2016 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

4. Bernardo Silva

Full name: Bernardo Mota Veiga de Carvalho e Silva

Nation: Portugal

Club Team: Manchester City FC

Position: Midfielder

Year of Birth: 1994

Bought from: AS Monaco

Born in Lisbon, Silva came through Benfica's youth academy. He began playing for Benfica B in 2013 and was promoted to the first-team in 2014, playing a few minutes with the latter. He was on loan at the Ligue 1 side Monaco during the 2014–15 season, with Les Monégasques making the move permanent in winter 2015. After winning the national championship with them in 2017, he was signed by English club Manchester City for a reported fee of £43.5 million. He subsequently won the Premier League and EFL Cup in his first season in England, following this up with a domestic treble the following season. He had a significant role in City becoming the first men's team in England to win a domestic treble, also being named Manchester City's Player of the Year in 2019.

Silva made his senior debut for Portugal in 2015 after previously being capped by Portugal youth teams at under-21 and under-19 levels. He was selected in Portugal's squads for the 2017 Confederations Cup, 2018 World Cup and 2019 UEFA Nations League Finals on home soil, winning the latter tournament as its best player.

In the 2018 World Cup, Bernardo played in all four games as Portugal reached the last 16. His second season in Manchester proved even better on both a personal and team level. City swept all the four trophies domestically and the 24-year-old was sensational throughout. He recorded 13 goals and 14 assists in 51 appearances, winning Man of the Match in the Carabao Cup final win over Chelsea and ending the campaign as the Club’s Player of the Season. Early in 2019 he signed a contract extension which keeps him at City until 2025.

Alexandre Lacazette of Olympique Lyonnais in action during the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 second leg match between AS Roma and Olympique Lyonnais at Stadio Olimpico on March 16, 2017 in Rome, Italy.

(March 15, 2017 - Source: Paolo Bruno/Getty Images Europe)

5. Alexandre Lacazette

Full name: Alexandre Lacazette

Nation: France

Club Team: Arsenal

Position: Forward

Year of Birth: 1991

Bought from: Olympique Lyonnais

Born in Lyon, Lacazette began his senior career at the city's largest club Olympique Lyonnais at age 19, after impressing as a member of the team's youth setup. He initially played as a winger, but was converted into a striker. This success led him to start for the side regularly by 2012, where at age 21, he helped the club win a Coupe de France and a Trophée des Champions title.

During his time at the club, Lacazette developed into a regular goalscorer, becoming renowned for his prowess in front of goal, as well as his team-first mentality, gaining comparisons to Ian Wright by Gérard Houllier. Lacazette also helped the club make a return to the UEFA Champions League, and contributed heavily to Lyon's runner up finishes in Ligue 1 in the 2014–15 and 2015–16 seasons. Lacazette recorded league-high 27 goals, and won the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award for his performances. Despite this, the club failed to win any additional trophies, and Lacazette began voicing his desire to leave.

After being honored in three Ligue 1 Team of the Year designations, as well as in a UEFA Europa League Squad of the season, Lacazette was the subject of, at the time, a club-record transfer to English team Arsenal in 2017, when he moved from Lyon in a deal worth £46.5 million. In England, Lacazette captured a FA Community Shield title in his debut season. In his second season, he was named the club's Player of the season, and gained praise for his strike partnership with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, as he helped Arsenal reach the UEFA Europa League final.

Lacazette made his debut for the senior side of the France national team in 2013, after he represented his nation across all youth levels. The 28-year-old was a key contributor in France's victory in the 2010 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, where he scored the match-winning goal in the final against Spain. The Arsenal striker continues to add value to the Arsenal team as they continue pursuing to become part of the premier league top 4.

Tiemoue Bakayoko of Monaco in action during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final second leg match between Juventus and AS Monaco at Juventus Stadium on May 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.

(May 8, 2017 - Source: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images Europe)

6. Tiemoue Bakayoko

Full name: Tiémoué Bakayoko

Nation: France

Club Team: Monaco (On loan from Chelsea)

Position: Defensive Midfielder

Year of Birth:1994

Bought from: AS Monaco

Due to his ability to break up play, the defensive midfielder is considered to have all-round ability, as well as possessing physical power and athleticism, with France national team manager Didier Deschamps describing him as “a complete midfielder.”

Bakayoko joined the academy at Rennes at the age of 13. At 14, he was turned down by the Clairfontaine academy. His senior career began at Rennes where he made 24 appearances before moving to Monaco in 2014 for £7 million. In his first two seasons at the club, Bakayoko made 31 Ligue 1 appearances, but was a regular starter in the 2016–17 season, contributing to Monaco's Ligue 1 title win as well as being named in the 2016–17 UEFA Champions League squad of the season. In 2017, he joined Chelsea for £40 million. Bakayoko made his first senior international appearance for the France national team in March 2017. This man has so much potential and he is growing to become a living legend if continues to work hard and push himself to the limits.

7. David Luiz

Full name: David Luiz

David Luiz of Paris Saint Germain in action during the pre-season friendly match between SSC Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain FC at Stadio San Paolo on August 11, 2014 in Naples, Italy.

(Aug. 10, 2014 - Source: Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images Europe

Nation: Brazil

Club Team: Arsenal

Position: Centre Back

Year of Birth: 1987

Bought from: PSG

After starting out at Vitória, David Luiz moved to Benfica, remaining with the club for five seasons. He joined Chelsea in January 2011, winning the UEFA Champions League during the 2011–12 season. In the following season, he won the UEFA Europa League. In June 2014, he transferred to Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of £50 million, a world-record transfer for a defender, and won all four domestic competitions over his two seasons in French football. His resume is absolutely out of this world and he is one of the best defenders of all time despite some mistakes he has made over the years of his career. He returned to Chelsea in August 2016 in a £30 million transfer deal.

David Luiz made his full international debut for Brazil in 2010 and has since earned over 50 caps for his country. He was a member of the Brazilian teams which won the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and reached the semi-finals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and has also represented his nation in two editions of the Copa América. David Luiz continues his career at Arsenal where he is working hard in developing a strong and undisputed defense system for Arsenal football club.

Parting note

All the mentioned players moved to French Ligue 1 and made a remarkable impact, which attracted the interest of other leagues particularly the English Premier League teams and that is where all of them are playing now. They continue building their careers as living legends and hopefully will create unforgettable moments in the English Premier League that will catapult them to even greater clubs, greater history positions and greater sponsorship deals.

Essam El Hadary, El Maestro

“The Ismaily goalkeeper has enjoyed an illustrious career with over 768 and counting appearances for 10 different clubs in mainly Egypt and partly Sudan, Sweden and Saudi Arabia. Essam El Hadary nicknamed the “High Dam,” remains a guiding light to all of Africa, that playing in Europe is wonderful but one can be as good a success in any part of the world.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

My earliest memory of the legend dates back to 2008, I had been just introduced to the beautiful game of football and there he was, sitting on top of the goal post with his arms waving like a flag. Egypt had just won a second consecutive Africa Cup Of Nations title, I was told. Essam El Hadary was obviously leading the celebrations and even as an amateur in the game, I could tell that form of celebrating was unconventional - the same I would later on learn about the player and indeed the rest of the world. At the age of 45 years and 161 days, the Egypt international became the oldest player to participate in a FIFA World Cup tournament in Russia 2018. It’s not just about the age, that statistic paves way to explore the peculiarity of the goalkeeper, which happens to be something to behold.

The early years

Essam was never meant to be a professional footballer, at least his parents thought so. Being born and raised in the home of a craftsman who owned his own furniture shop, El Hadary was almost expected to follow suit but rebelled even from an early age. He would play football behind his parents’ back and wash the muddy clothes in a local river after every training session to keep his secret safe and secure. However his talent and dedication outgrew the secret and got signed by a Second Division Club from his hometown, Damietta at the age of 17. He did it the not so easy way, running 7 km to training every single day and having to initially keep without gloves because they were a strange accessory to the teenager who had never worn a pair in his entire life. As they say, the rest is history. Those small habits of resilience, passion and commitment ingrained in that young boy would be enough to light up the path that led him to a world record-breaking career

The club years

Essam El Hadary of Egypt reacts during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Saudia Arabia and Egypt at Volgograd Arena on June 25, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia.

(June 24, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

The Ismaily goalkeeper has enjoyed an illustrious career with over 768 and counting appearances for 10 different clubs in mainly Egypt and partly Sudan, Sweden and Saudi Arabia. Essam El Hadary nicknamed the “High Dam,” remains a guiding light to all of Africa, that playing in Europe is wonderful but one can be as good a success in any part of the world. In that period, he has won 8 Egyptian Premier League titles, 4 Egypt Cups and Super Cups, 4 CAF Champions League titles and 3 CAF Super Cups, all with Al Ahly, the most successful football club on the African continent. The High Dam also left the foreign lands with some silverware to his name and happens to be one of the most decorated footballers on the continent, of all time!

Pharaohs skipper

The Pharaohs of Egypt are the most successful football nation in Africa and the legendary High Dam is a significant part of that story. The West-African nations of Ghana, Cameroon and Ivory Coast all know him too well as they took turns to be denied of the AFCON gold by the man between the sticks in the period running from 2006-2010. Egypt won 3 consecutive Africa Cup Of Nations trophies in that time stretching their record to 7 titles. Hadary was named goalkeeper of the tournament on all three occasions and can boast of a total of 4 AFCON titles to his name throughout his career. Having previously retired from international football, the goalie returned to the Pharaohs goal in 2014 against Bosnia, even going ahead to lead Egypt to the 2017 AFCON finals after saving two semi-final penalties, in typical El Hadary fashion. In Egypt’s closing match at the 2018 world cup finals against Saudi Arabia, El Hadary made the much awaited debut as he played his first and monumental world cup match at 45 years of age. With the composure of a veteran, superman-like reflexes and legs difficult to tire, one could visibly see the traits that sustained such a beautiful career as he expertly saved one penalty before conceding a second one later on in the match.

With a total of 159 appearances, the High Dam became Egypt’s third most capped player of all time and hung his Pharaohs gloves in August 2018. He is now 46-years-old and still plays professional football in Egypt’s top flight league for Ismaily.

El Hadary, El Maestro, will forever be a player etched in the books of history and our hearts as one of the greatest footballers the continent of Africa has ever seen.

Three of the greatest coaches Africa has ever seen

Mbaye Niang of Senegal and Aliou Cisse, Head coach of Senegal shakes hands after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

Looking at the French team’s World Cup success, statements like “Africa won the World Cup” were not absolutely shocking. This is because players of African descent or African players have made such an impact on the global football arena. That’s an idea which has been warmly embraced across the globe. However, when we look at African football managers, the story there is far from this great one. There are not many outspoken African coaches but that does not mean they are not doing as good a job. Greatness is not defined by quantity. Below, we delve into discussing some of the great African managers that we seldom celebrate.

Hassan Shehata of Egypt speaks after receiving the FIFA Order of Merit from FIFA President Joseph Blatter (2nd L) during the opening ceremony of the 64th FIFA Congress at the Expocenter Transamerica on June 10, 2014 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

(June 9, 2014 - Source: Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images South America)

Aliou Cissé - Senegal

We are right to hear this name and be quick to associate it with the World Cup because the Senegalese coach was the only black coach at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. He was profiled for his stern attitude towards his players while making sure that details do not just pass his way without getting the attention they deserve. He was chosen for this position because he had also been a patriotic player who led his country to the quarter finals in the 2002 World Cup which was held in Japan and South Korea. His teammates have also attested to his not-willing-to-quit spirit that he possesses, even as a player. He is well able to transfer the same energy to his players by giving very inspiring speeches. The 42-year-old Cisse does not just choose the best squad but also knows how to filter his words and get the very best out of his troopers! We also got a bit of what  the Senegalese players’ daily bread tasted like when he was quoted saying, “Football is a universal sport and I represent a new generation that would like to have its place in African and world football.” That is a sentiment we absolutely share with him.

Hassan “The Boss” Shehata - Egypt

Coach Clive Barker of Bidvest Wits during the Absa Premiership match between Ajax Cape Town and Bidvest Wits at Cape Town Stadium on April 20, 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa.

(April 19, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Shehata led Egypt to win the Africa Cup of Nations three times in 2006, 2008 and 2010. When you win once, we can call it fate but when you just get it right three times, it means the talent in you is unquestionable. That is one thing that the now 71-year old legend can be remembered for. As a coach, he is good at making decisions, and standing by them even when they seem to be less popular. Many of us will recall his dispute with Mido after replacing the player 11 minutes until the end of the game in the 2006 semi-finals. The striker was so displeased at the gesture as he was optimistic of getting a goal before the final whistle. They came close to exchanging more than just harsh words, but Shehata was not moved. He had made a decision that not even harsh words or more could change.

Clive Barker - South Africa

He won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996. This was particularly an important year for the whole of South Africa, who had just fought off the oppressive Apartheid regime in 1994. The country was of course in a feeble political state, and the trophy became the much needed revival. This goes a long way to show the kind of impact that soccer can have in unifying a nation. Beyond that glorious act in history, Barker also coached a number of clubs in South Africa. He won the Coca-Cola Cup with Amazulu in 1992. Under his leadership, the South African national team was ranked by FIFA as the best team in Africa and featured in the Top 20 teams worldwide in 1997.

No wonder they even qualified for the 1998 FIFA World Cup finals. Those are heights that the post-Apartheid South African children are yet to enjoy. Maybe if they only had Clive to lead them there!

Conclusion

It is always tempting to just give all the glory to the players, because they are the ones we see during the 90 minutes and forget the people who invest time in doing all the other work behind the scenes. In this piece, we remembered a fair share of some of the greatest coaches the continent has ever seen.

FT Out Of The Box Series: "Forgotten" African greats who are still playing football

“Asked about he manages to keep up with the demands of football at age 40 on Supersport’s Thursday Night with Robert Marawa, Nomvethe cited that he doesn’t drive to training, but jogs there. An inconceivable distance that has helped him stay fit.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Football stories of Africans playing abroad are decorated with names of upcoming talents spread across all of Europe’s major leagues together with the established talents doing bits almost everywhere. I am referring to Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Nicolas Pepe, Isaac Success, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Franck Kessie, Riyad Mahrez only to mention but a few. There is another list of players who now hardly appear in the news, usually perceived to have retired but are still adding value to their teams and memories of their great exploits are still fresh in their minds, our minds and their feet. Of course feet are incapable of retaining memories but you get the idea. Here at FirstTouch, we have picked just three of those players for now.

Salomon Kalou - Ivory Coast

Salomon Kalou (R) of Berlin battles for the ball with Milos Veljkovic of Bremen during the Bundesliga match between Hertha BSC and SV Werder Bremen at Olympiastadion on September 10, 2017 in Berlin, Germany.

(Sept. 9, 2017 - Source: Matthias Kern/Bongarts)

In as much as I was planning to present an aha moment to you saying, “the great Kalou still plays football,” the weekend’s highlights kind of spoiled all that for me. The great Ivorian reintroduced himself to the media houses covering African players by scoring twice for Bundesliga side, Hertha Berlin in their 2-2 draw away at league leaders, Borussia Dortmund. Kalou, now 33, joined Hertha in 2014 from French Ligue 1 side, Lille. The forward started his football career at ASEC Mimosas in Ivory Coast and went on to play in almost all of the European major leagues in his prime years as a footballer. Kalou first appeared for Dutch Eredivisie side, Feyenoord in Europe where he scored 35 goals in 69 matches becoming so good that a story of him getting a Dutch citizenship by naturalization grabbed the newspaper headlines for quite some time. The forward eventually moved to Chelsea where he played alongside the likes of Didier Drogba and won a premier league title, four FA cups, FA community shield and the infamous 2012 UEFA Champions League trophy. In total, he scored 61 times for Chelsea in 156 appearances and also won some individual accolades such as the 2008 CAF Young Player of the Year and the 2005 Dutch Football Talent of the Year. The 2015 Africa Cup of Nations triumph with Ivory Coast meant Kalou won everything available to a footballer except for the world cup.

Asamoah Gyan #3 of Ghana scores a goal against the United States defends in the second half during an international friendly between USA and Ghana at Pratt & Whitney Stadium on July 1, 2017 in East Hartford, Connecticut.

(June 30, 2017 - Source: Jim Rogash/Getty Images North America)

Asamoah Gyan - Ghana

This is a man who obviously needs no introduction having been the face of Ghana for quite some time and more interestingly the face of Africa in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, when he broke hearts by missing a quarter-final penalty against Uruguay. Gyan is still very much an active footballer and the official captain of the Black of Stars of Ghana at age 32. He plays for the Turkish side, Kayserispor and has been in their books since 2017. Gyan started his footballing career at Ghanaian Premier League club, Liberty Professionals and went on to wear the colors of several European clubs such as Udinese in the Italian Serie A, English Premier League’s Sunderland and Rennes in the French Ligue 1. He also signed for UAE Pro-League side, Al Ain before moving to Chinese Super League in Shanghai SIPG colors, where he reportedly earned an astounding £227 000 per week, easily becoming on of the world’s best paid players. Gyan became a crowd favorite for the exploits in seven AFCON appearances for Ghana and the 2006, 2010 and 2014 FIFA World cups. He is currently Ghana’s leading all time goalscorer with 51 and the leading African goalscorer at the world cup with 6.

Siyabonga Nomvethe - South Africa

Pablo Zabaleta.of Manchester City is challenged by Siyabonga Nomvethe of Aalborg during the UEFA Cup, Round of 16, Second Leg match between Aalborg and Manchester City on March 19, 2009 in Aalborg, Denmark.

(March 19, 2009 - Source: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images Europe)

Easily the most striking thing about Nomvethe is that he is 40 and still plays in the South African top flight league, the Absa Premiership. Most South Africans will never forget this name, a deadly striker in front of goal in his prime and very much a capable striker for Amazulu FC right now, even at 40 years of age. Nomvethe has had a career that has swung like a pendulum between Europe and his beloved South Africa. He appeared for sides like Udinese in the Italian Serie A, Empoli, AaB in the Danish Superliga as well as both halves of the infamous Soweto derby in Chiefs and Pirates. Even appearing for Moroka Swallows, the rival of the two aforementioned Soweto sides. Ubaba Nomvethe is popularly known for forming partnerships with other South African heroes such Sibusiso Zuma and Aaron Mokoena. Asked about he manages to keep up with the demands of football at age 40 on Supersport’s Thursday Night with Robert Marawa, Nomvethe cited that he doesn’t drive to training, but jogs there. An inconceivable distance that has helped him stay fit.

FT African Legends Series: Didier Drogba, the irreplaceable Chelsea legend

After a short while, we have to reminisce the good old days. The times when African legends where still around, playing their best football in front of a crowd of tens of thousands, and millions behind a screen. This week, we focus on Didier Drogba, the Chelsea legend who had an illustrious career in England before moving to China and the MLS to wind down his career. Most people know about his highs, the times when he was the king of Stamford Bridge and a constant menace in a head to head against Arsenal. But what about the times when his career looked in jeopardy? Here’s the other side to Didier Drogba’s story.

“Two years later, Didier Drogba  returned to the club he had helped win their first and only UEFA Champions League trophy to date. He claimed that the decision was made easy by the fact that it was the Special One, Jose Mourinho who made the call and wanted him again back at the club. Although this time as backup to Diego Costa, Drogba’s presence was invaluable.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

The Ivorian striker was brought to London by the current Manchester United boss, Jose Mourinho who was in charge of Chelsea at the time. He brought the African talent with the hope of being a backup to the Ukrainian Andriy Shevchenko, a £31 million investment made by the club in 2006. Although Drogba had arrived a year earlier, he was meant to be a temporary measure as Mourinho sought for his dream striker. Shevchenko went straight into the team but failed to live up to expectations. Didier kept his head down and found the net whenever he was handed an opportunity. In no time, it was evident that the African forward was Chelsea’s best bet as Shevchenko struggled to score more than 10 goals in the 48 matches he played between 2006 and 2009. Drogba survived that test and marched on in the blue colors.

Didier Drogba of Chelsea celebrates with fans and the trophy after the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on May 24, 2015 in London, England. Chelsea were crowned Premier League champions.

(May 24, 2015 - Source: Mike Hewitt Premier League/Getty Images Europe)

Shortly after, the club invested in the experienced Nicolas Anelka to give competition to the Ivorian centre forward who had personalized the number 9 spot. In fact, Anelka came with so much reputation that he was expected to start ahead of Didier Drogba as they challenged for the UEFA Champions League. They eventually lost the final to local rivals Manchester United but Didier Drogba was by far one of their best players in the team. In the end, Drogba created a formidable partnership with Anelka and Malouda in a season which saw the club win back to back FA Cup titles in 2008/09 and 2009/10 as well as lifting the English Premier League title in the 2009/10 season. The Chelsea legend overcame yet another hurdle set in front of him by the then Chelsea coach, Avram Grant. Drogba proved his worth and landed a place in the First XI of the West London club.

Former Ivorian footballer Didier Drogba (R) and Noel Gallagher present Mohamed Salah of Liverpool with the trophy for the FIFA Puskas Award 2018 during the The Best FIFA Football Awards Show at Royal Festival Hall on September 24, 2018 in London, England.

(Sept. 23, 2018 - Source: Dan Istitene/Getty Images Europe)

As if these two tests were not enough, Chelsea made a mouthwatering £50 million bid for Liverpool forward, Fernando Torres in January 2011. El Niño was bought by Carlo Ancelotti because he suited the Italian’s style of play more than the traditional centre forward in Drogba. The African did not feel threatened by this record breaking signing as he was confident in his abilities. He humbly accepted being dropped to the bench and continued to work tirelessly in training to prove that he could still lead the line at Chelsea like he had done for 6 years. At the end of the 2010/11 season he scored a total of 11 goals as compared to Torres’ one goal which he scored in 14 appearances. The following season saw a significant amount of game time limited for Drogba which explains his 5 goals in the English Premier League. Even still, Torres had scored one more goal than him but the number of minutes he had played in 2012 , did not justify such a low return. As a result, Didier Drogba left the club of his dreams for greener pastures.

Two years later, Didier Drogba  returned to the club he had helped win their first and only UEFA Champions League trophy to date. He claimed that the decision was made easy by the fact that it was the Special One, Jose Mourinho who made the call and wanted him again back at the club. Although this time as backup to Diego Costa, Drogba’s presence was invaluable. His influence in the dressing room saw a disjointed Chelsea team return back to the top and win the English Premier League in his first season back at the club. The Blues claimed the 2014/15 crown as well as winning the Football League Cup that same year. He scored a total of 7 goals across all competitions in his last stint at the club that recognize the African great as one of their Legends. Although he did not play much, he still contributed to the success of the club. Because of that, Didier Drogba will never be forgotten by the Chelsea fans.

Didier Drogba is irreplaceable!

FT African Legends Series: Perpetua Nkwocha, the best ever?

Ester of Brazil holds off Perpetua Nkwocha of Nigeria during the Women's First Round Group F match between Nigeria and Brazil at the Workers' Stadium on Day 4 of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games on August 12, 2008 in Beijing, China.

(Aug. 11, 2008 - Source: Jeff Gross/Getty Images AsiaPac)

While growing up, she wanted to be a nun or a lawyer, but the passion on the field of play just called out too loudly for her to resist. Perpetua Nkwocha is arguably one of the best players that have played soccer in Africa, men and women included. The attacking midfielder was known for her gracious ability to blend speed and flair to always deliver masterpiece performances. Beyond that, we want  to dig on who exactly she is and how much she has done for herself, her supporters and her country.

Overview

She was born in Nigeria on the 3rd of January 1976 and has always been passionate about soccer. After playing in Sweden for the Sunnanå SK team, it was then fit for her to coach a Swedish team Clemensnäs IF which plays in Swedish Women’s Football Division 2. She continues to offer her expertise on the game abroad, and also as part of the coaching team of the Super Falcons (Nigeria's Women National team). Evidently, the 42-year old believes that the best way to retire is not only to buy a lavish holiday home on an island, but in sharing all the lessons learnt with the younger generation. She has also graciously participated in 4 FIFA World Cups and of course the Olympics in Sydney, Athens and Beijing. Even though she began her international career at 23, it did not take her long to be at the top because within five years, she had many eyes glued on her.

Perpetua Nkwocha of Nigeria celebrates after scoring their first goal during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 Group A match between Canada and Nigeria at the Rudolf-Harbig Stadium on July 5, 2011 in Dresden, Germany.

(July 4, 2011 - Source: Scott Heavey/Getty Images Europe)

She just could not stop winning!

She was voted the Africa’s Woman Footballer of the Year, 4 times which is more than any other woman in the continent. The prominence of the title lies in its ability to recognise a player’s skills and the hard work invested. In 2004, she got the Best African Female Footballer Award in the African Championship which led to her being declared the most valuable Nigerian player. Out of the 7 CAF Women's Championships she participate in, she won 5. One of her memorably classic performances was the 2004 CAF performance where she scored 4 goals against Cameroon enough to snatch the tournament title in the final. Actually, she only took sixty minutes to bag the quad . In the Nigerian squad, the invisible messianic cloak belonged to Perpetua beyond reasonable doubt. She just could not stop winning things, even collecting more individual honors for being the top goal scorer in the Women’s AFCON thrice  in 2004, 2006 and 2010.

Goal machine turned perfect bride

After gracing the field of play for a number of years, she graced the magical aisle and the golden altar two years ago when she got married to her long time sweetheart Ernest Ikechukwu Nuufoh. During the wedding, her husband alluded to Nkwocha’s calm nature which he could not resist. Her wedding is not just a successful love story, but it goes all the way to combating stereotypes about women not being able to balance a successful career and marriage. Furthermore, Nkwocha also proves that whoever said women who play soccer are too “manly” to get married was wrong. It is possible and beautiful for women to fall in love with other people and soccer.

“One of her memorably classic performances was the 2004 CAF performance where she scored 4 goals against Cameroon enough to snatch the tournament title in the final. Actually, she only took sixty minutes to bag the quad . In the Nigerian squad, the invisible messianic cloak belonged to Perpetua beyond reasonable doubt.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

FT Legends Series: Lucas Radebe, "The Chief" who became Nelson Mandela's hero

Preamble

The English premier league is known for its reputation of attracting some of the world’s best imports like Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry, who have grabbed headlines for their displays during their footballing careers. However most attention seems to go to non-African players who impacted the league yet surprisingly there are African stalwarts who also took the league by its horn at some point. These include South African legend, Lucas Radebe famously known as “Rhoo” who plied his trade for then English premier league team, Leeds United. So who is Lucas Radebe one may ask?

“In recognition of his leadership and abilities, Radebe was appointed captain of the team for the 1998/99 season, leading his team to fourth position while qualifying for the UEFA Cup in the process. This was perhaps the twilight of “Rhoo’s” ridiculously amazing career.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

The beginning

Lucas Radebe is a South African born retired footballer from the famous township of Soweto in Johannesburg. His footballing days began when he was signed by Kaizer Chiefs ironically as a midfielder before he switched positions and became a defender. During his time with “Amakhosi”, the lanky defender marshalled his defence with great aplomb and led Chiefs to league and cup glory between his 1989-1994 stay with the club.

Christian Karembeu and Lucas Radebe attend the FIFA Ballon d'Or Gala 2015 at the Kongresshaus on January 11, 2016 in Zurich, Switzerland.

(Jan. 10, 2016 - Source: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images Europe)

Nelson Mandela’s hero

While at Chiefs, Radebe endured one of the darkest moments in his life when he was shot while walking down the streets of the crime-prone Johannesburg. He nonetheless survived and as such it is said that this incident triggered his decision to jump ship and move to England to join Leeds United in 1994. Radebe quickly became a pivotal player in the Leeds team so much that he earned a nickname “The Chief” from the team’s fans. This was partly due to his previous club but equally because of his impressive skills in defence. In recognition of his leadership and abilities, Radebe was appointed captain of the team for the 1998/99 season, leading his team to fourth position while qualifying for the UEFA Cup in the process. This was perhaps the twilight of “Rhoo’s” ridiculously amazing career. Oh and mind you, Radebe had a rare encounter with South African icon Nelson Mandela who visited Radebe and his team Leeds United. During his visit, Mandela alluded that Radebe “is my hero”, a befitting recognition for a man who broke boundaries and showed the rest of South Africa (and the African continent at large) that nothing is impossible. Sadly, in 2000, Radebe sustained knee and ankle injuries, which kept him out of the game for almost two years. At the end of the 2005 season, Lucas retired from professional football and got quite the perfect send off as his testimonial match comprised of many star players.

Lucas Radebe attends the After Match Dinner of "Match against Poverty" at the Restaurant "Das weisse Haus" on December 13, 2011 in Hamburg, Germany.

(Dec. 12, 2011 - Source: Christian Augustin/Getty Images Europe)

“The Chief”, an honorable man

Internationally, Radebe was capped 70 times by Bafana Bafana with his last match coming against England on the 22nd of May 2003. For his leadership efforts, Radebe was named FIFA ambassador for SOS Children’s Villages and also received the FIFA Fair Play Award in December 2000 for his contribution in the fight against racism in soccer.

In ways more than one, Radebe is a true epitome of humble beginnings. From lining up for one of the biggest teams in South Africa to playing for one of the biggest English teams during his time, to captaining his national team at two FIFA World Cups as well as leading Bafana Bafana to its one and only Africa Cup of Nations triumph, “The Chief” surely experienced it all. To this day, Radebe is still a football darling in South Africa as well as at his former club Leeds. His humility off the pitch added the cherry on top to Radebe’s outstanding career, if you ask me he was the perfect football professional. Coupled with his trademark smile, “The Chief” will surely be remembered as one of the finest imports to ever grace the South African and English Premier League. While remembering the international greats who have graced the premier league, be sure not to sleep on legends like Radebe who also deserve recognition for their sterling showings during their time in world football.

ABSA Flashback: Three strikers that took the South African League by storm

The Absa premiership is one of the most watched leagues on the African continent, Many foreign international players have had the opportunity to grace the league and show football lovers their worth. Below, we take you down the memory lane and bring you some of the top international strikers that have played in the league.

1. Collins Mbesuma

Collins Mbesuma of Orlando pirates battling for the ball with Samson Chilupe of Zanaco FC during the CAF Confedaration Cup match between Orlando Pirates and Zanaco at FNB Stadium on April 06, 2013 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

(April 5, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

No doubt Mbesuma will surely go down as one of the best foreign strikers to ever grace the ABSA premiership. He was a thorn in the flesh for many defenders with his sacred left-foot. The former Kaizer Chiefs marksman scored a staggering 35 goals in his second season with Chiefs, helping the club to win the title in the 2004/2005 season while also grabbing the player of the season accolade. Mbesuma was a joy to watch in the 18 yard box. His predatory instincts and off the ball movements enabled him to make scoring looked like a hobby anyone can do. Ironically, Mbesuma managed to play for all the “big three” teams in South Africa as he also joined crosstown rivals Orlando Pirates and later turned out for 2015 CAF Champions league winners, Mamelodi Sundowns. Other teams that Mbesuma played for include Golden Arrows and Mpumalanga Black Aces.

2.  Manuel “Tiko Tiko” Bucane

Chinedu Obasi and Obinna Nsofor of Nigeria tackle Tico-Tico Bucuane of Mozambique during the African Nations Cup Group C match between Nigeria and Mozambique, at the Alto da Chela Stadium on January 20, 2010 in Lubango, Angola.

(Jan. 19, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The former Jomo Cosmos attacker was just pure class. He could be so slippery he would leave defenders shouting at themselves as he ran off to the corner to celebrate after slicing through the most compact of defences.Popular for his summersault (Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang kind) scoring celebrations, Bucane surely had his moments of brilliance in the league. The Mozambican born striker boasts the record of most goals scored by a foreign player in the South African league, scoring 106 goals in 276 starts. Too good a stat right? Bucane resembled a high level of consistency which is rare these days in the ABSA premier league. To add icing to the cake Tico-Tico is remains a responsible citizen, now working as an ambassador of various enterprises in his home country of Mozambique.

3. Knowledge Musona

Rafael van der Vaart of Tottenham and Knowledge Musona of Chiefs during the 2011 Vodacom Challenge match between Kaizer Chiefs and Tottenham Hotspur at Peter Mokaba Stadium on July 16, 2011 in Polokwane, South Africa.

(July 15, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The Zimbabwean  arrived at Naturena accompanied by controversy pertaining to Chiefs’ transfer policy which was nicknamed “buy one get two free” which was specific to Zimbabwean players. Nonetheless, the jokes disappeared soon after Musona started playing for Amakhosi as his displays made critics eat humblest of pies. In just two seasons with the Glamour boys (Chiefs), Musona bagged 28 goals in 49 matches which soon made him attract interest from Germany. “The Smiling Assassin” as Musona is popularly known, certainly had quite an impressive time during his time with Kaizer Chiefs. He was a menace to defenders with his lightning pace and sheer goal poaching instincts. Many remember him for his moments of brilliance particularly in the soweto derbies between Chiefs and Orlando Pirates where he scored a handful of goals.

Notable mentions also go to the likes of Peter Ndlovu, Benjani Mwaruwari, Chris Katongo, James Chamanga, Mame Niang as well as Raphael Chukwu. These goal poachers certainly gave us moments to cherish for a long time because of their goal scoring abilities. Who’s your favourite striker of all time?

“The former Jomo Cosmos attacker was just pure class. He could be so slippery he would leave defenders shouting at themselves as he ran off to the corner to celebrate after slicing through the most compact of defences.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

FT Late Heroes Series: Cheick Tiote

Soccer is a sport that was introduced before the First World War. It has evolved over the years to what we enjoy now in the various football tournaments and leagues across the world. In the FirstTouch Late Heroes Series, we take a look at the African players who are no longer with us but still left a mark on the game that we love today. In this piece, we reflect upon the career of a certain Cheick Tiote, who made a name for himself at Newcastle United, in Tyneside, Great Britain. The African midfielder continued the legacy left by Michael Essien of a traditional African midfield destroyer. At FirstTouch, Tiote’s memories still live with us and here’s how we celebrate his life.

From barefoot football to Europe

Cheick Tiote of the Ivory Coast controls the ball as James Rodriguez of Colombia gives chase during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group C match between Colombia and Cote D'Ivoire at Estadio Nacional on June 19, 2014 in Brasilia, Brazil.

(June 18, 2014 - Source: Adam Pretty/Getty Images South America)

The African player was a typical example of a street footballer. He did not grow up in an academy like many and started playing barefoot street football at 10 years of age. Tiote owned his first pair of boots at 15, before he started his professional career at Ivorian minor league side, FC Bibo. Being a school drop out at a young age, the player was driven to succeed in playing soccer at the highest level. He is quoted as having said, “I worked and worked and worked for it and it is because of that hard work that I have managed to make it.” This he had to say during his time in England when he had already played for Belgian side, Anderlecht and FC Twente in the Dutch Eredivisie.

Stunner against Arsenal

Tiote is mostly remembered for scoring a stunner from 30 yards out of the box against Arsenal. He was part of the team that achieved the greatest comeback in the English Premier League as Newcastle came back from 4-0 down to draw 4-4 against Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal in February 2011. His goal was the fourth for the club and the equalizer in an 8-goal thriller. What made it special was the connection of the ball and the leg on the volley by a player in full speed. The level of technique that it took to volley that ball into the back of the net earned Tiote some deserved praise for a wonder goal in the English Premier League. He left one for the history books.

“I worked and worked and worked for it and it is because of that hard work that I have managed to make it.”

— The Late Cheick Tiote, Former Ivorian International

Fierce Trio

Newcastle player Cheick Tiote in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester City at St James' Park on April 19, 2016 in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

(April 18, 2016 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

Also, the defensive midfielder partnered Manchester City legend, Yaya Toure and Jean-Jacques Gosso in the spine of the team for his national side, Ivory Coast. It was him and Gosso Gosso that provided cover for Yaya and allowed him to influence games in the final third. It was unfortunate that they could not lift the African Cup of Nations when Didier Drogba was still around but they eventually managed to win it with Toure as captain in 2015.

Untimely Death

After his stint at Newcastle, Cheick Ismael Tiote decided to move to the Chinese Super League side, Beijing Enterprises in 2017 as he winded down his career. It was reported that on June 5, 2011, Cheick Tiote suffered a cardiac arrest in training which took his life 16 days before his 31st birthday. His death was a shock to the football world and it was dark day. We have him to thank for contributing towards the game with his all as commitment levels, second to none.

Tiote’s Coaches’ Tribute to Him

1. Rafael Benítez labelled him "a true professional"

2. Alan Pardew described him as "everything that you want in a Newcastle player"

3. Steve McClaren (who had managed him at both Twente and Newcastle) remembered him as the toughest player he had ever seen

4. Chris Hughton (who had brought him to Newcastle) spoke of his humility and called him "the perfect fit"

Honours

Before the end of his time, Tiote had achieved a lot throughout his career both at club and at international level. He won the:

1. Belgian Super League 2005/06 and 2006/07 (Anderlecht)

2. Belgian Super Cup 2006 (Anderlecht)

3. Eredivisie 09/10 (Twente)

4. Dutch Super Cup 2010 (Twente)

5. African Cup of Nations 2015 (Ivory Coast)

FT African Legends Series: The ultimate "markswoman", Portia Modise

As we draw closer towards the much anticipated 2018 Women's Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Ghana from the 17th of November to 1st of December, we celebrate some great legends of the game on the continent.

While the men’s South African team has been struggling to score goals. The women’s team, Banyana Banyana had a gem who used to score goals for fun in Portia Modise. Below we profile this unsung hero who knew what it meant to be a striker during her playing days.

blog, football, feature, Portia Modise, Arsenal Women’s team, Banyana Banyana, AWC,SAFA, CAF, Mali, Soweto, London Olympics

Background

Nicknamed “Bashin” after the football great Alfred “Bashin” Mahlangu, Portia was born in June 1983 in the famous township of Soweto in South Africa.

Contribution to the game

With a scoring prowess which was second to none, Portia Modise became the first African (amongst both men and women) to amass more than 100 international goals. Yes you read that right. She scored 102 goals in 119 appearances for Banyana Banyana in an unbelievable career which was filled with various accolades and achievements. Modise was named Player of the tournament at the Women African Championships held in 2006 for her stellar performances even though Banyana Banyana could only finish as first runner-ups. Moreover, “Bashin” was also part of the Banyana Banyana squad which represented South Africa at the 2012 London Olympic games.

Club Career

Professionally, Portia played for various South Africa teams including Soweto Ladies F.C where she scored 51 goals for the club . She also played for teams like Falcons F.C, and Croesus Ladies which were locally based teams. In 2007, Modise received an opportunity to play in Europe. She signed a two-year deal to play in Denmark for premier league team Fortuna Hjorring, before she returned to South Africa in 2009 to play for the Palace Super Falcons. Also worth noting is that back in 2003, Modise almost played for the Arsenal women’s football team, once upon a time in her glorious career. However, the move failed to materialize mainly due to finance and sponsorship details, despite Modise impressing the then Arsenal coach.

“With a scoring prowess which was second to none, “Bashin” became the first African (yes you read that right) to amass more than 100 international goals in 124 appearances. Such a record epitomized the true legend that she was in a male-dominated sport like football.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

International Career

Portia’s glimmering career was earmarked mainly by her amazing exploits at national team level. She began playing for Banyana Banyana back in 2000 aged 16. While playing for Banyana Banyana, she was instrumental in helping the team qualify for the 2008 African Women's Championship held in Equatorial Guinea. She also helped the team qualify for the 2012 London Olympic games where she scored the team’s only goal during the whole tournament. With a scoring prowess which was second to none, “Bashin” became the first African (yes you read that right) to amass more than 100 international goals in 124 appearances. Such a record epitomized the true legend that she was in a male-dominated sport like football. She finally hung her boots in 2015 after an illustrious career.

Career Accolades and Achievements

Portia Modise of South Africa celebrates scoring during the Women's Football first round Group F Match of the London 2012 Olympic Games between Sweden and South Africa, at City of Coventry Stadium on July 25, 2012 in Coventry, England.

(July 24, 2012 - Source: Sindy Thomas/Getty Images Europe) 

Portia’s amazing career was nothing short of achievements to back up her legendary status. For instance, Modise was nominated for the Women's FIFA World Player of the Year award back in 2005. She was also nominated for the 2006 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Women's Football of the Year award. Furthermore, Modise won the 2006 player of the year championship at the Women’s African Football Championship. She also went on to win the much coveted South African Sports Star award in the year 2014. What’s more, to close off a wonderful footballing career, “Bashin” was honoured by the South African Football Association (SAFA) after scoring her 100th goal for Banyana Banyana in the African Women’s Championship (AWC) in Namibia, 2014.

Women’s football still lags behind in coverage both in Africa and internationally, however those who did get the opportunity to see Modise in action will know that she had skill and inherent talent beyond that of many of her male counterparts. Not many have been able to mimic nor reach the class exuded by Portia Modise during her days. Nonetheless, the upcoming Women’s AFCON provides the appropriate platform for Africa and the rest of the world to see new talent that can take Women’s football by storm and reach the level  of Portia Modise. Will we see more of the Portia Modise, or was she one of a kind? You make the call.

FT African Legends Series: Salif Keita, a forgotten hero?

African football has much to thank for the legacy of a certain Salif Keita who played in Europe between 1967 and 1980. There is another famous person who goes by the name Salif Keita but he is an Afro-pop singer-songwriter from Mali. Our FirstTouch Legend Keita, is the uncle to the Seydou Keita who played for Barcelona recently. Let’s take you through the career of the goal scoring machine that earned our African Football Legendary status.

Background

Also known as ‘The Black Pearl of Bamako’, Salif Keita was born in Mali in December 1946. He moved to France in 1967 to pursue his career in soccer at AS Saint-Etienne where he won three Ligue 1 titles. Keita scored an astonishing 71 league goals in his two seasons at the club. He moved on to fellow Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille in 1972 after scoring 42 goals in his last season for his former club and failing to win any silverware. His time at Marseille was cut short after the club tried to force him to assume French nationality so that he could represent them on the international scene. Keita was a proud African and he refused those advances which saw him leaving for the Spanish side, Valencia. Racism was still rife during those days which is evidenced by a headline which read, “Valencia goes out to buy Germans and comes back with a black man.” However, he was loved by his new club who gave him the nickname, ‘La Perla Negra de Mali’ which translates to The Black Pearl of Mali. He later played for Sporting Clube de Portugal before moving to New England Tea Men in the MLS where he retired at the age of 34.

Contribution To The Game

Salif Keita was one of the first soccer players that shone in the Number 10 jersey and made it as famous as it is today. He dazzled fans in Europe with his amazing dribbling ability carrying that number at the back which inspired many players who followed. Soccer greats like Ronaldinho, Zinedine Zidane, and others have worn this shirt which is respected and usually reserved for the best players on the team. Without Keita carrying 10, the jersey might not have been as significant as it is present day football. The game has evolved over the years but much respect should be reserved for the Malian striker who left a mark in the sport which many now call their religion.

Soccer took its time to rise up in terms of popularity within the US. Many suggested that the culture in the country is a major reason why this is. They alluded that Americans are generally interested in sports in which there are a lot of scores. This affected their perception of soccer which sometimes has matches that end in goalless draws. During Salif Keita’s time, however, this would not have been a concern. The striker was famous for scoring goals. As mentioned earlier he scored a total of 71 goals in two seasons during his stint at AS Saint-Etienne. He was a joy to watch. These numbers are difficult to match in the present day with only a handful of players reaching these numbers on a consistent basis.  

Salif Keita left a legacy in the game. His nephew Seydou Keita carried the family torch after him as he played for Barcelona under Pep Guardiola. As football fans, nothing beats the feeling we get when we see a young player following in the footsteps of our former heroes. Think of Jay-Jay Okocha for example, and his nephew Iwobi. These youngsters are adored in the sport because they bring memories of players who shed their sweat, blood, and tears to entertain the millions of soccer fans who watch the games. Salif Keita was one of the players who inspired their family members to play soccer and supported them throughout their career. We have him to thank for that.

If you were wondering what type of a striker he was, think of Cristiano Ronaldo. Keita was ruthless in front of goal but also had the composure and trickery to create space for himself and beat opponents before rifling in a shot past the goalkeeper. He was also versatile and could play anywhere up front. If you recall how Edinson Cavani adjusted his game during his early years at PSG where he played out wide, that paints a picture of how Keita was when he was asked to play for Valencia. He had a football brain so it was easy for him to play in any position.

Image Credit: Bamada.net

Today, many players are seen moving to the MLS in the later stages of their career. Football greats such as Kaka, Steven Gerrard, David Beckham, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have all plied their trade in the US in their 30s. This was started by Keita who moved to the MLS in 1979 and has become a trend for many star players who are looking for some competition before retirement. The Malian forward has clearly left a mark on the game of soccer.

Also, we look at his ranking among FirstTouch African Legends. It is only fair to compare him with fellow African players who played in the same position. There are probably just three players ahead of him i.e. Eto’o, Rodger Milla and Didier Drogba. This is only because these other players were more consistent than him and played on the biggest stage for a long time. They also managed to win multiple African Player of the Year awards as compared to Keita’s sole accolade awarded in 1970.

Life After Football

1. In 1994, Keita created the first training center for professional football players in Mali

2. June 2005, he was elected president of the Mali Football Federation

3. A year later, the Confederation of African Football selected him as one of the best 200 African Soccer players of the past 50 years

4. Since 2007, he has been acting as a delegated minister of the Prime Minister of Mali

Gervinho and Yaya Toure: Aging like wine

Some of the most decorated names in African football history are backup in the headlines, reminding the world that form is temporary but class is permanent.

Gervinho

“Clearly I wanted to keep him on for the whole game and I received a lot of insults from the stands, but I am taking some risks with him. He had 20 minutes against SPAL, plus some problems during the week, and I can’t afford to lose him. Gervinho has unique technical and physical characteristics, so I can’t let him get injured.”

— D'Aversa, Parma Manager

The 31-year-old Ivorian made a shocking return to the Serie A this summer under the newly promoted Parma from the Chinese Super League side, Hebei China Fortune. The Chinese adventure was one momentarily erased the AFCON winner from the global stage after as it was marked with injuries and lapses of form. He is however really back now. The former Arsenal forward who also struggled in North London is showing signs of his long term love affair with the Italian soil. Gervinho soared at AS Roma playing alongside Mohamed Salah and Edin Dzeko and he announced himself again over the weekend, scoring for Parma in their 2-1 loss to the Serie A champions, Juventus. Even though he is yet to regain full fitness, there was evidence that his quick dancing feet and killer instinct is a thing for eternity, something no injury or football league could take away.In fact, in the Juventus match, only Douglas Costa completed more dribbles than Gervinho, not even Ronaldo could match the Ivorian. Parma manager was full of praise for the forward and did acknowledge the Ivorian’s ability singling him out as one for the key ingredients to his success formula.

Alex Sandro of Juventus competes for the ball with Gervinho of Parma Calcio during the serie A match between Parma Calcio and Juventus at Stadio Ennio Tardini on September 1, 2018 in Parma, Italy.

(Aug. 31, 2018 - Source: Marco Luzzani/Getty Images Europe)

Yaya Toure

“I am as hungry for success now as I was when I first arrived here many years ago and I cannot wait to help the club win the trophies the great fans of Olympiakos deserve. It is now time to let my football do the talking once again.”

— Yaya Toure, Olympiakos

After Yaya’s agent had teased the whole of London, announcing that the free agent had completed a medical in London, the four time African Player of the Year returned to Olympiakos in Greece. The 35-year old was mobbed by the Greeks with lit-flares subjecting the Ivorian to a hero’s welcome.The sight in Greece was really something of the nature of a prodigal son being welcomed home and pretty much “Prince Charming” awaited to rescue the “Princess” from the giant castle guarded by the fiery dragon. After falling out of the domestic title race last time out, Olympiakos will be hoping that Yaya will pull off a Yaya and deliver the goods.

You can surely bet on the three time EPL Champion with Manchester City, AFCON winner and UEFA Champions League winner with Barcelona to live up to the hero status even when age seems to be catching up with him. Even in his own words, he sounds sharp and ready to roll.

Vincent Kompany of Manchester City embraces Yaya Toure of Manchester City as he is presented with a shirt in a frame during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Brighton and Hove Albion at Etihad Stadium on May 9, 2018 in Manchester, England.

(May 8, 2018 - Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images Europe) 

The Legacy of African Football

Introduction

For many years, the African continent has been described as the “dark continent” because of its myriad of challenges such as civil wars, malnutrition, poor governance amongst many other reasons. That narrative is slowly changing, as Africa the has become the second fastest growing economic region. Just as citizens are working together to bring out the much desired change in Africa, football stars have been no different. Coming from humble and sometimes difficult backgrounds and then going on to bag big monies in Europe or elsewhere, they hardly forget their roots. Here is a list of some of the icons who have left their mark on the continent.

Didier Drogba

Who else to begin with but the Chelsea man who scored more than 100 English Premier League goals and won them their only UEFA Champions League trophy in 2012. He certainly was a fan favorite in London but even more adored in the West African nation. Even though he failed to win the Afcon title for the Ivory Coast, he did give them a lot to cheer about. Drogba once used his influence to broker a ceasefire between rebel fighters and the government by advocating for an African Cup of Nations qualifier to be held in the rebel town of Bouake.

He established the Didier Drogba Foundation to improve the health and education of children in Africa. Didier once pledged to use all his endorsement revenues for charitable causes beginning with the $3 million he got from Pepsi. He used it to set up a hospital in Abidjan in 2009.

Michael Essien

The midfield maestro who was loved by Mourinho for his resilience and strong tackles on the pitch was truly a “black star” in Ghana, giving light and hope to thousands. He had a very successful career in Europe playing for Chelsea, Real Madrid and AC Millan. The ever smiling Ghanaian set up the Michael Essien Foundation to raise funds to help the less fortunate access basic amenities such as public toilets, health care equipment, libraries and clean drinking water. He is also involved in Reading Goals initiative which seeks to inculcate reading habits in students. In June 2013, Essien organized the “Game of Hope” charity match in Accra which pitted African footballers against other global footballers to raise awareness on the need of peace.

Nwako Kanu

The ex-Arsenal and Nigerian Super Eagles star was such a wonder on the pitch. Standing over 6 ft. tall, he would dance past defenders and surely became a reliable marksman for the Gunners. After escaping a heart scare himself, Kanu opened the Nwako Kanu Heart Foundation in 2000 to assist young children in Nigerian and the rest of Africa to obtain heart surgeries. The UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador’s Foundation has arranged for over 1000 children to travel abroad and get heart surgeries done.

George Weah

Mister George is perhaps the most decorated African player of all time. He really had a great time in Europe where he played for Monaco, PSG, AC Millan, Chelsea and Manchester City. In that period, he won two French titles, 2 Italian Serie A titles, 3 CAF Player of the year awards and the FIFA Ballon d’Or. After being involved in Goodwill ambassadorial work for the UN and UNICEF, Weah began a political career which peaked with him becoming Liberia’s President in a historic election for the country.

Joseph Yobo

The former Everton and Nigerian center-half is probably not as popular as the above four man in football matters but his work off the pitch has been equally beneficial. He started the Joseph Yobo Charity Foundation in Nigeria which has seen over 300 students ranging from primary to university receive educational scholarships. Yobo also set up a football academy in Nigeria’s Ogoni Region.

Conclusion

It may not be all of them but if we are to sum up the legacy of African football legends in a sentence, it would be that of developmental work on the continent. With their contributions and that of other individuals from varied industries, the rising continent of Africa has a bright future that will forever be linked to the game of football..

From king of the pitch to king of a nation: George Weah

“My fellow Liberians, I deeply feel the emotion of all the nation. I measure the importance and the responsibility of the immense task which I embrace today. Change is on.” George Weah tweeted these words on the night of Thursday, 28th of December 2017 as he waltzed into history books once again but now as the first ex-football star to become president of a nation.

Yes, his story is a typical success story of “came from a humble background and then made it in life through hard work and perseverance,” but Mr. Weah is no ordinary successful man. He is idolized in the West African nation as “Mister George.”

The beginning

It all started from Clara Town slum of Monrovia, one of the poorest counties in the nation founded by freed American slaves, Liberia. George was born to William T. Weah, Snr. and Anna Quayeweah but raised mostly by his paternal grandmother. Like any other child with decent opportunities in Africa, he attended middle school at Muslim Congress and Wells Hairston in high school before but at the time, only himself knew that he was firstly a footballer before he was a student. Mister George’s football career started off quickly in the domestic leagues where he won few titles and some personal accolades including the Liberian Premier League title. Sometime during his domestic football career he had to work as a switchboard technician at Liberia Telecommunications to get by in life but his successes would soon catch the attention of Arsene Wenger. He was quickly brought to Monaco by Arsene and then the conquest began.

Football career

The story goes on, the wheels wouldn’t just come off in this man’s illustrious career, there was no stopping him. He went on to win a four major titles in France with Paris St Germain in the 1989-1995 period before moving to Italy. George Weah then bagged two Italian Serie A titles in four years with AC Milan playing alongside Roberto Baggio in the frontline. His European successes were also coupled with dominance in Africa, winning three CAF African Player of the Year titles in 1989, 1994 and 1999 and became the first and up to now, the only African player to have won the coveted Ballon d’Or and FIFA’s World Player of the Year in 1994. He is known for his strength, speed and dribbling ability. Most people remember the goal he scored at Milan against Verona where he dribbled past seven players from his own box until he scored. FIFA described him as the “precursor of the multi-functional strikers of today.” He became popularly known as King George. Mr. Weah’s decorated football career ended with short spells at Chelsea, Manchester City and finally Al-Jazira in UAE in 2003. He was voted Africa’s Player of the century by sport journalists, the same recognition that the Brazilian Pele got for South America and Johan Cruyff for Europe. But the story is only half done. He was always a patriotic, who went back home to Liberia when he won his first CAF award while he was at Monaco to celebrate with his country. Watch what happens next.

Off the pitch

He was always a person of goodwill, even though there was an incident where he broke the Portuguese, Jorge Costa’s nose in the tunnel after a Champions League match at Porto in 1996. He alleged that Jorge had made some racist comments on which he never got any witnesses. George later apologized to Costa but the Portuguese wouldn’t have any of that. He was however named FIFA Fair Player of the year that year and also became UNICEF and UN Goodwill Ambassador later. Back home, Mister George was a President of Junior professionals, a football club that required school attendance for entry. Most of the recruits have gone to play for the national team. In 2016, he partnered with Indian Entrepreneur, Nirav Tripathi in a multi-million deal that would set up global football academies to assist youth in impoverished and emerging nations.

Mr. President

In 2005, George Weah announced his intentions to run for Presidency against the Nobel Peace Prize Winner and Harvard educated, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Some people probably thought he was biting more than he could chew right there. Surprisingly he was leading the race in the first round of elections with 28.3% of the votes. He however eventually lost the presidency to Sirleaf getting 40.6% and his rival 59.4% in the second round of elections where he accused the opposition for voter intimidation and ballot tampering which was brushed aside by the African Union. He humbly took the loss. Weah was always criticized for lacking formal education to govern a nation by opposition leaders, they called him “a babe in woods.” He once replied to the critics in a statement, “With all their education and experience, they have governed this nation for hundreds of years. They have never done anything for the nation.”

After pursuing a business administration degree at DeVry University in Miami, Mister George returned home and successfully campaigned for the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) in Montserrado County senatorial by-election. In 2011, CDC unsuccessfully contested in the elections selecting Weah as the Vice-President with Winston Tubman as the presidential candidate. Three years later, Weah was elected into the Senate after overwhelmingly beating the president’s son, Robert Sirleaf. He became the first international athlete to make to represent a county in the Liberian legislature.

2017 has been the year when it all comes together outside the pitch for Mister George. He is officially the President of Liberia in historic election which saw the first democratic transition of power. He beat Vice President Joseph Boakai by getting 61.5% of the 98% votes counted with Boakai getting 38.5%.

He is the only African player to have won the FIFA World Player of the year in 1995, the Ballon d’Or in the same year and the first ex-football star to lead a nation, his is George Tawlon Manneh Oppong Ousman Weah and this is FirstTouch Football.