February Week 3 Quotes: FT's Top News From Around The Globe

Bizzare crotch grabbing celebration at the Wanda Metropolitano, Spain

“It means we have balls, a lot of balls. To start [Diego] Costa and Koke after they hadn't played for a month takes balls. I did it as a player in Lazio-Bologna and I did it again to show our fans that we have cojones. It wasn't aimed at the other team, I was turning towards our own supporters. It's not a nice gesture, I'll admit, but I felt the need to do it. It was such a tough game, we fought so hard and Diego Costa worked really hard when he wasn't 100 percent fit. I had to show what I was feeling. I can only apologise if anyone was offended, but I did it from the heart.” - Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid Manager

After Atletico Madrid 2-0 first leg win over Juventus in the UEFA Champions League round of 16

Diego Simeone, Manager of Atletico Madrid reacts during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 First Leg match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Juventus at Estadio Wanda Metropolitano on February 20, 2019 in Madrid, Spain.

(Feb. 19, 2019 - Source: Angel Martinez/Getty Images Europe)

Jose Mourinho, Manager of Manchester United looks on during a press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League Group H match against Juventus at Aon Training Complex on October 22, 2018 in Manchester, England.

(Oct. 21, 2018 - Source: Jan Kruger/Getty Images Europe)

Mourinho’s new found off-the-pitch bromance with Arsene Wenger continues

“And we were like a third force coming. Chelsea had a great desire to be champions for the first time in so many years. So, of course, it was the confrontation of forces and you can imagine that Sir Alex, Wenger and myself we were fighting for the same. We were like, I like to say in football, 'sweet enemies.'” - Jose Mourinho, Former Manchester United Manager

Jose’s comments on the former Arsenal Manager upon him winning the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award

Ikenna Martin “Ike” Opara joins MLS’s Minnesota United

“I finally invested in a proper outerwear jacket. It's amazing how comfortable and warm those things are. You don't actually realize how cold it is here.” - Ikenna Opara, Minnesota United Defender

Ike, a native of North Carolina speaks on his recent switch to Minnesota from Sporting Kansas City

South Africa’s Women national team intensifies 2019 World Cup Preparations

“We are back in camp to continue with preparations for the World Cup, and as we approach the start of the Cyprus Cup, this indicates we are edging closer and closer to our maiden World Cup tournament. We will be playing four top quality matches in Cyprus and at the end of the tournament we will not only know how far we are in terms of preparations but also which players will be ready for the World Cup.” - Desiree Ellis, South Africa Women’s National Team Coach

Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis on the team’s preparation plan for the Francen 2019 finals to be held between 7 June  and 7 July

Sadio Mane of Liverpool reacts during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield on September 18, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

Sadio Mane’s home burgled while playing a champions league match against Bayern Munich

“While the occupants were not present at the time of the incident this will no doubt be a distressing experience for them and I would ask the offenders to do the right thing and return the stolen items to the owner in any way possible.We know the watches in particular are of significant monetary value and I would also like to appeal to anyone who might have been offered the items for sale since the burglary to contact police.” - Merseyside Police Detective Inspector
Detective Inspector Phil Mahon of Merseyside Police’s preliminary comments after the incident. This happens to be the second time, the Senegalese’s house gets burgaled after a similar incident occurred while away on champions league duty at Maribor in 2017. Mane joins a growing list of footballers falling victims to burglary as three of Lyon’s players suffered the same fate while they were playing Barcelona on Tuesday and PSG players who have had to deal with the same in recent years.

South Africa's Lerato Chabangu: A bittersweet story

“The paradoxical nature of Chabangu’s touching story sheds some life lessons that particularly football players can all adopt or be mindful of. On one hand, it is the perfect epitome of the serious challenges faced by players with regards to various aspects such as financial education.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Former Bafana Bafana player Lerato Chabangu feels that he can get back on to the football pitch and play professionally once more. The former SuperSport United, Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United striker, who has also played for Bafana Bafana in his career, has recently been signed by Baberwa FC in the ABC Motsepe League. Chabangu penned down a six-month deal with the side and is hoping he can revive his career.

Chabangu’s resurgence comes after a long spell off the field that was characterized by a plethora of struggles the player went through. These included excessive indulgence in alcohol, as well as uncontrollable reckless financial spending. Speaking in an interview in late 2018, Chabangu confessed saying, “I do feel like I’m depressed. I comfort myself by watching TV. I disappointed lots of people. I was found in a wrong space, most of my friends were living in the township. I could say that I have destroyed myself, I can’t really blame others. If you are at the wrong space, the negative things will catch you.”

Lerato Chabangu of Tshwane XI and Gennaro Gattuso of Italy during the friendly match between Italy and Tshwane XI at Super Stadium on June 12, 2009 in Atteridgeville, South Africa. (Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images/Getty Images) * Local Caption * Gennaro Gattuso;Lerato Chabangu

(June 12, 2009 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

But perhaps what is more interesting is how Chabangu rose to stardom and made him one of the greatest players South Africa has ever seen. At some point he was even linked with heavy interest from European teams. However, lack of financial discipline and professional discipline proved to be a setback in Chabangu’s once glamourous career. Then he hit rock bottom. The stories that broke thereafter were rather sad considering the immense talent this player possesses. Chabangu conceded that reckless spending and lack of financial discipline got him into many problems such as booze and spending money on women.

The paradoxical nature of Chabangu’s touching story sheds some life lessons that particularly football players can all adopt or be mindful of. On one hand it is the perfect epitome of the serious challenges faced by players with regards to various aspects such as financial education. Often times than not, teams only pay salaries to their players and distance themselves from what happens to the players when they reach retirement. This means that the onus is on the players to take charge of their finances after retirement, but, especially from an African context, one finds that footballers lack knowledge and expertise on how best they can get the most of their money whilst they are still playing.

Stories like Chabangu’s therefore pose a challenge to players as well as clubs themselves to do more with regards to collaboration and helping players plan for life after football as early as when they start playing. By so doing, this will help avoid situations whereby players struggle and eventually enter dire situations like Chabangu did. What’s your take on financial discipline in footballers? Should clubs do more?

Al Ahly: The road to continental dominance

“Al Ahly was founded in 1907 as a way to unite young people from across high schools in Egypt who had become very instrumental in the fight against colonialism.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

The hardest part about excellence is not attaining it, but it is sustaining it. To be continuously at the top, you do not need to take a chance at excellence, but it has to be in your DNA. That has been the case with Al Ahly and they were crowned as not just the Club of the Year, but the Club of the Century by the Confederation of African Football in 2000. They are arguably one of the most successful clubs in the world.

Beautiful History

Al Ahly was founded in 1907 as a way to unite young people from across high schools in Egypt who had become very instrumental in the fight against colonialism. Such intentional beginnings are ones that First Touch Africa celebrates as they are core to the reason why we celebrate football. We appreciate football for its ability to unite people from different walks of life towards a common goal. Even though the club was in Egypt, its first President was Mitchel Ince who was a British man.  The club went on to unite 50 million fans outside of Egypt.

Al Ahly's Ahmed Mohammed celebrates his winning goal during the international friendly match between AS Roma and Al Ahly on May 20, 2016 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.

(May 19, 2016 - Source: Chris Whiteoak/Getty Images Europe)

Winning was never by chance

Just after its inception, the club participated in the Sultan Hussein Cup which ran from 1917 to 1938 and won that competition 7 times. When the Egyptian Premier League was initiated in 1948, Ah Ahly won the championship until 1960. In total, they scooped the cup 39 times with some of these cups coming for 8 years in a row. As a fan, it means watching your team for years and not tasting disappointment like everybody else. It is such a soothing experience. Because success is not constricted by location, it is not surprising that when they took to the continental level, they won the African Champions League in 1982 and 6 times after that. When they play their games, they are able to attract as many as 74 000 in the Cairo’s International Stadium..

Business is as clean as the football they play

Beyond the more than 100 accolades in 100 years  that the club has been able to get, Al Ahly is also well commended for the way it is able to handle its business dealings with high standards of professionalism and integrity. Sometimes, we hear about under the table dealings that happen in other clubs, but Al Ahly was even dubbed as the “club of values” by its former president Salem Salim. It is always encouraging to know that behind a team’s glory, there is also some glorious activities that enhance the reputation of the club.

Still soaring high

Presently, the club is being coached by Martin Lasarte after they sacked their former coach Patrice Carteron. This was after they fell short at the face of Tunisia’s Esperance in the CAF Champions League. This sacking is proof that excellence is a guarantee where there exists flexibility to change. As time goes, this club is all out to do well for itself in the continental sports arena.

Sports and soccer betting banned in Uganda, hit or miss?

“As far as the President is concerned, the dilemma that young people are facing is choosing between hard work and betting, so much that removing one will inevitably work for the other.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

When the President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni tweeted that Uganda will be banning sports betting by not issuing new licenses for betting companies nor renewing old ones, he got a “Praise the Lord” from religious leaders and skepticism from economists. According to the President, there are a couple of justifications for this directive and we cannot dispute that. However, the effect of an action is not always as noble as the intention of it. Will this decision yield the anticipated results?

Why was it done?

The directive seemingly stemmed from the President’s best interest for the youth. According to him, sports betting is the reason why most people are diverted from the core value of hard work and lie around idle. As far as the President is concerned, the dilemma that young people are facing is choosing between hard work and betting, so much that removing one will inevitably work for the other. Such an incredible dichotomy of choices! Even more importantly, the President touched on how most of these companies are foreign owned. After all the betting that takes place, they take most of the profits outside of the country which drains the economy. This is a common phenomenon amongst African states and it really does need to be curbed.

Hit or Miss?  

Uganda supporters cheer ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group D football match between Egypt and Uganda in Port-Gentil on January 21, 2017. / AFP / Justin TALLIS

(Jan. 20, 2017 - Source: AFP)

The government of Uganda is estimated to lose about Ush50 billion  (about U$13.6M) yearly from these companies if they go ahead with implementing this ban. This is probably way less than what these companies then take out of Uganda annually, but it sure does contribute to the welfare of some Ugandans. Should government then let go of it under a ban?  Mr Albert Baine, a tax expert from Global Taxation Services Ltd, said that in as much as government should care about the social impact of activities that happen inside the country, it should also ensure that does not come at a financial loss. This then proves that if the outcome is to satisfy both criteria, then a ban is probably not the best way to go about it. There is a way through which regulation could be crafted such that financial and social impact are maximised.

Betting is also one other way that adds excitement and commitment to sports, especially football. When people do not just associate a team with colours, but with their money, they are most likely going to attend the soccer matches or stream the game. They will be religiously following the team that they have sided with during a bet. This is the kind of support and attention that sports especially in Africa need. However, we agree that interest should not come at the expense of other things like academics and work. This then means that people need to be sensitised on the dangers of gambling addiction, which is something that companies can take up as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).  Because a ban comes with a blanket wipe out, even of things that might be beneficial, like commitment to sports, it maybe a miss in some cases.

Mr Paul Lakuma, a researcher at the Economic Policy Research Centre also raised a point about how this ban could lead to the eruption of a gambling black market. If it is surely an addiction, people will not be stopped by legislation from practising it. Instead, they will find means to do it outside of the government’s eyes. This will even lead to a higher economic drain as government cannot account for this underground money and possibly lose tax from it.

Conclusion

What then shall I say, I am of the opinion that the President’s concerns are genuine and should be taken seriously. However, a ban seems to be quite a drastic approach. There are softer ways to deal with all the problems that he has rightly identified.

The question of match fixing in African football

“In a report by Thomson Reuters, match fixing was dubbed as the biggest threat in the 21st century. However, it could also be our biggest chance to solve something big, together. We cannot let our players lose out on the one thing that should be fulfilling them.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

In 2018, the African football arena was shocked by the Ghanaian scandal. In the many publications that we saw, it was not just the glaring financial corruption that disturbed us, but it was also the allegations of match fixing that made us lay back and question the game’s future in Africa. In Zambia, the former international player Nchimunya Mweetwa has started a foundation that educates people about the ills of match fixing. It’s an incredible move, but the problem still needs more hands on deck. How do we then come up with more sustainable solutions to combat this?

The word “fixing” in general has a positive connotation. It looks like it's about making things right and I thought the same would apply in football. In this case, however, match fixing involves manipulating a team’s results by either bribing the players or the referees to ensure that one team advances over the other. It is usually driven by people who have bet on the game and want to ensure that they surely win the bet. The major problem is that match-fixing takes away the fun and growth in the sport as it diverts players’ attention from the main goal. After all the training that a player invests, they have to make sure that they do the exact opposite of what they have been taught. I cannot begin to imagine the harm that this imposes on a person’s conscience. They say all their team chants, smile at their team players and fans but then intentionally do the exact thing that will take away all those smiles and hope. Acknowledging the ills is not enough, how then do we eradicate this?

A Burkina Faso supporter poses ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final football match between Burkina Faso and Tunisia at the Stade de l'Amitie Sino-Gabonaise in Libreville on January 28, 2017. / AFP / GABRIEL BOUYS

(Jan. 27, 2017 - Source: AFP)

Success does not exist in a vacuum. It only exists when the environment around it has been cultivated well enough for it to grow. In an interview with BBC, Nchimunya Mweetwa alluded to the fact that some of these match fixing temptations come because players do not have enough money to cater for their everyday needs. Money from a game fixer then becomes an irresistible temptation. Trust me, I am not using poverty as justification for unethical behaviour, but this is surely a sign of the root cause. This means that government departments, coaches and other sports official should then ensure that what players earn from sports is enough to make their ends meet so much that they are not easily lured by unclean money. On another note though, can money ever be enough? Will paying enough really solve the problem? It might not completely eradicate the problem but it is surely a viable place to start.  

There are of course other solutions that can include harsher sentences for offenders with the hope that other people will be deterred. That too can be explored, but the most effective solution is one that does not wait for people to commit the offence before we solve the problem. We should also invest in ethical development and training where we remind our players how the game adds to their comprehensive growth and why they started playing in the first place.

Because match fixing does not just affect the immediate stakeholders, it also trickles down as disappointment to fans, it should be a problem for all of us to fix. In a report by Thomson Reuters, match mixing was dubbed as the biggest threat in the 21st century. However, it could also be our biggest chance to solve something big, together. We cannot let our players lose out on the one thing that should be fulfilling them.

The pursuit of justice for racial abuse on Kalidou Koulibaly continues

We cannot not deny the impact of the efforts that have been made by the responsible authorities over the years to curb racism but still, players of color often receive this kind of abuse on and off the pitch. On the 26th of December 2018, Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly was a subject of racial abuse in a match with local rivals, Inter Milan. We have been made to believe that the due process to deal with such issues is to report it to the FIFPro and UEFA who will launch a probe on the matter before making a decision. However, no action has been taken so far against the disrespectful fans. Here’s a recap.

The incident

Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between SSC Napoli and Liverpool at Stadio San Paolo on October 3, 2018 in Naples, Italy.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

The Senegalese defender was at his job on a typical matchday Sunday in the Italian Serie A before the unfortunate incident took place. Some of the Inter Milan fans started making monkey noises directed at Kalidou Koulibaly in the match. The player was then sent off after picking up 2 yellow cards. He was suspended for two matches as punishment for sarcastically clapping off the referee after receiving marching orders. In the aftermath, Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti came out to say that they made calls to end the match after hearing the abuse but it fell on deaf ears. He was not pleased with the way the officials handled the matter in the game.

Koulibaly’s support system

Not so long after, Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba wore an armband in support of Kalidou Koulibaly after the incident. The player’s message was clear and directed to the perpetrators who are fighting against the game’s values of honor, tolerance and respect. He was not the only one to show much needed support to the player. Even the Inter Milan coach, Luciano Spalletti was quoted to having said, “We were with Koulibaly, as we are at the side of all those who are targeted during the games.”

Also, fellow African Faouzi Ghoulam of Napoli wore Koulibaly’s No 26 shirt in the warm up for the game against Bologna in which the defender was suspended. He was joined by the fans who held up anti-racism banners and photos of Koulibaly.  

Ancelotti’s threat

Carlo Ancelotti has since threatened to lead his team off the pitch if there is a repeat of such an incident. There is no place for racism in the game of football and everywhere else. He said, “The boy was on edge, he's an educated footballer who was targeted. What happened today was bad, not only for us but also for Italian football.”

The authorities’ actions

The Italian League judge gave the verdict that Inter Milan would play the next two home matches behind closed doors. This means that their supporters would not be allowed to populate the stadiums and support their club. Also, the verdict included a partial closure for the club’s third home game.

However, the culprits who led the chants have not been punished. The Italian FA should do more and make sure that these fans are banned from the stadium for life.

FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #1 The global reign of the Egyptian King

“He truly became the Egyptian King; graffiti of his face all across the North African country, a ‘brawl’ over image rights for his face, his shooting boots immortalized at a museum in Britain, spoiled ballot papers in Egypt’s presidential election with many voting “Mo Salah” and many other intriguing events which could take forever to lay down. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

At FirstTouch, we have a saying that goes like, “a year is never over until we close it.” In the spirit of that ideal, we took our time to look back at the ten most defining moments of 2018, as far as African football is concerned. Could you guess what they are? Here is number 1.

The world runs at a pace so fast that some truly extraordinary occurrences seem like a lifetime and then a moment at the same time. It’s only been a year since the name Mohamed Salah got global acclamation but seems like forever. The 26 year-old Egyptian couldn’t stop making the headlines. After returning to the Premier League in the summer of 2017, Mo Salah used the early half of 2018 to silence all doubters and remarkably regained Africa’s place among the world’s best footballers. With odds almost 1000/1 to achieve everything he did, he did it anyway.

Egypt fans hold a poster of Mohamed Salah prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Egypt and Uruguay at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 15, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

(June 14, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

Salah sent tongues wagging as he ran down the Liverpool wing all the way to a Players’ Player of the Season, the Football Writers’ Association Player of the Season, and a Premier League’s Golden Boot award with a record 32 goals in 36 league starts. As if that was not enough, he added a couple more goals in the UEFA Champions League eventually leading the Merseyside club to a UCL final in as many years. Even the BBC African Player Of The Year and the CAF African Player of The Year awards had the Egyptian’s name inscribed on them. Did I mention, the FIFA Puskas Award of the Best goal scored in 2018 or being the first runners up to the FIFA Best World’s Player Of The Year eventually won by Croatia’s Luka Modric ahead of the likes of Messi or Ronaldo. It was quite delightful to see an African’s name on the FIFA Best Awards, which had been robbed of a mention since the days of Liberian President, George Weah. Perhaps the most priceless of Mo Salah’s achievements to the Egyptians, was a historic 2018 FIFA World Cup appearance in as many years.

He truly reached Egyptian King status; graffiti of his face all across the North African country, a ‘brawl’ over image rights for his face, his shooting boots immortalized at a museum in Britain, spoiled ballot papers in Egypt’s presidential election with many voting “Mo Salah” amongst other intriguing events in 2018.

Lest we forget, 2018 was truly a year to honor and celebrate one Mohamed who goes by the last name, Salah.

FT's 10 Best Moments of 2018: #2 Senegalese fans dripping sauce

Senegal fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Japan and Senegal at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 24, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

(June 23, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

At FirstTouch, we have a saying that goes like, “a year is never over until we close it.” In the spirit of that ideal, we took our time to look back at the ten most defining moments of 2018, as far as African football is concerned. Could you guess what they are? Here is number 2?

The 2018 FIFA World cup was arguably the most anticipated events of 2018 at the commencement of the year and truly lived up to the hype. Of course it was a day off for Africa as all of its five representatives failed to reached the knock out stages of the competition but was not without positives to pick up moving forward as a footballing generation of the continent.

One such positive was an off-field event that elevated the fans of the Lions of Terranga. It’s no secret that in many places around the world, Africa is seen as a dirty, war torn and starved place, and its people rowdy and uncultured. Even narratives such as, “Senegal the physical team” were prevalent towards the Russia tournament, not because of the admiration of their physical prowess but an undertone suggesting them not being so good tactically. The Senegalese people present at the world cup took the time to be just themselves by cleaning up after each of their three group matches against Poland, Japan and even after the most heart-breaking one against Colombia, when their side’s elimination was confirmed. Confirmed by reason of not having less points or goals but being on the receiving end of the most number of yellow cards in the group. No explanation needed here to describe the kind of people they are and the kind of African people as a whole.

Of course it was not only the Senegalese fans, but their partnership with the Japanese of keeping Russia clean gained them global recognition and was awarded with a nomination under the FIFA Best Fan Of The Year Award category.

“Senegalese people present at the world cup took the time to be just themselves by cleaning up after each of their three group matches against Poland, Japan and even after the most heart-breaking one against Colombia...”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Odion Ighalo does not fear for his life!

Oghenekaro Etebo, Odion Ighalo, Leon Balogun and Francis Uzoho stand dejected after conceding the opening goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Croatia and Nigeria at Kaliningrad Stadium on June 16, 2018 in Kaliningrad, Russia.

(June 15, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)

There are so many things that soccer players go through outside the pitch that the fans seldom pay little attention to. Some players go through emotional torture because of the abuse that comes from the fans when they are not performing well, and some are forced to fear for their lives. This is the story of a certain Nigerian who is one of the many players that have been threatened by their own fans in the midst of a bad performance at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Former Watford centre forward, Odion Ighalo was one of the first names on the Nigerian team sheet at the recent FIFA World Cup hosted in the cold land of the Russians. He played in Nigeria’s first match in the tournament against Croatia where his nation fell to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the eventual finalists. He tried his best in front of goal but to no avail and was eventually demoted to the bench in the following match against Iceland. All his efforts in the tournament have gone down the drain in the memories of the radical fans who feel that his only contribution was to huff and puff goal-scoring opportunities. Ighalo has since received death threats from numerous people on his social media accounts which is unacceptable. The player goes to lengths to score a number of goals for his country only to be paid back by insults when he is out of form.

“It was painful but not enough to make me quit the country.”

— Odion Ighalo, Nigeria & Changchun Yatai

Odion Ighalo of Nigeria and John Stones of England in action during the International Friendly match between England and Nigeria at Wembley Stadium on June 2, 2018 in London, England.

(June 1, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

This is not the first time that a player or coach received death threats because of unfortunate circumstances. Former Chelsea and Italy national team coach, Antonio Conte fell prey to similar attacks from Juventus fans who blamed him for the injury of Claudio Marchisio in August 2014. Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Carlo Tavecchio revealed that Conte received death threats on the internet. Soccer fans are entitled to their opinions and reactions after bad performances but there is a line ought to be drawn in terms of expression.

Death threats have a toll on a player’s mindset whenever they play as they feel unsafe, even in their own country. Ighalo talked to BBC Sport after revealing that not only him but his family too received such threats.

After all, we need to remember that soccer is a sport made possible by these players who represent our clubs and national teams. The players are human beings and have emotions which need to be protected like any other. No one deserves to feel unsafe especially after working their socks off for the love of the game only to be attacked by the very same people they sacrifice a lot for.

Denounce these actions and save the lives and careers of our players. We are with you Ighalo!

France - a great incubator for African soccer talent. A sustainable system or not?

The reigning world champions won the 2018 FIFA World cup in style. Les Blues made lightwork of a resilient Croatian side as they cruised to a 4-2 victory that warranted them the world cup gold. With a squad averaging 26 years of age, the joint second youngest squad at the tournament in Russia, not many would have seen France going all the way, at least I didn’t - especially that the tourney had been won by ‘experienced’ and ‘talented’ squads in times past, which really means relatively old players playing for the biggest of clubs in the world. One indisputable fact to the European country’s world cup triumph is their strength in diversity, in particular - deep appreciation of players of African descent. Don’t worry, it’s not that cliche write-up, bestowing the honor of the world cup gold on Africa. The French football fraternity has done so much more in including African players in their academies and local clubs, that it’s even hard to ignore. Deliberately or objectively, they have have just done it.

“Here is the interesting part. An African is born a great football talent - whether or not they grew up playing in the streets with a rubbish ball, dancing past cars. They are simply born good, it seems to always come with the blood. Take my word for it.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

What is it really, that they do?

Christopher Nkunku of Paris Saint Germain in action during the International Champions Cup match between Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain at the National Stadium on July 28, 2018 in Singapore.

(July 27, 2018 - Source: Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images AsiaPac)

If you come across players of color or Arabic football players in the French leagues, it’s almost certain that they will be of African descent. Francophone West African countries such as Ivory Coast, Togo, Mali as well as Algeria and Tunisia in the north are the most common, as result of the close ties between the above countries and France due to colonial history. France is simply not so uptight with their immigration laws which have amounted to a sizeable number of African parents moving to the country in search of “greener pastures.”

Here is the interesting part. An African is born a great football talent - whether or not they grew up playing in the streets with a rubbish ball, dancing past cars. They are simply born good, it seems to always come with the blood. Take my word for it. The reason why African countries are not at the top, is just as the adage says - fewer resources or mismanagement of them thereof has seen the continent’s football systems lag behind despite hosting the brightest of talent. Now, those African children born in France, and because they are born good football players - France’s established systems and infrastructure make them great. Nine times out of ten, every French top flight team has their star players having that African heritage.

Let’s play a game

Naby Keita of Liverpool (L) is challenged by Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC at Wembley Stadium on September 15, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 14, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

Picking a French Ligue 1 team at random, let’s trace the roots of their star players. Lets even start with PSG, the cash-loaded side with a host of expensive imported players from everywhere. The golden boy, Kylian Mbappe was born to a Cameroonian father, even their academy starlets in for example Alan Nkunku who has been getting some first team minutes under Tuchel, the boy has roots in DR Congo. Lyon’s captain, Nabil Fekir, the 2018 world cup winner is of Algerian descent, second-placed LOSC Lille have their attackers crowned with Ivorian talent in Jonathan Bamba and Nicolas Pepe. Marseille and French shot stopper, Steve Mandanda was born in DR Congo it goes on and on to the lowest of leagues. The game gets really boring, but I am sure you got the point.

About the current heroes

Nabil Fekir of Lyon celebrates after scoring his team's second goal with his team mates during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between Manchester City and Olympique Lyonnais at Etihad Stadium on September 19, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 18, 2018 - Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Europe)

African players conversations are dominated by names such Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Liverpool trio in Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita, Man City’s Riyad Mahrez amongst many others. The above are definitely the most expensive African players and amongst if not the creme de la creme and guess what? It’s only Mohamed Salah who did not have France as his doorway to professional football and eventual success. Even countries like England and Belgium have had their most recent successes on the international front boosted by this #strength in (African) diversity. The likes of Dele Alli, Ryan Sessegnon, Romelu Lukaku, Nacer Chadli, Vincent Kompany among many other notable names - they all have African roots.

A question for Africa

There are few African greats who have bypassed France to stardom which include the likes of the Zambian, Kalusha Bwalya, Nigeria’s Austin Jay Jay Okocha, Peter Ndlovu from Zimbabwe and many more. Like I said, they are just few - only a tiny fraction of similar players who have just as much talent or even better. Perhaps the pertinent question for the continent at this stage is, what about all those who cannot be catered for by the French system or any other more established ones? Should we continue letting it be and hope by chance, things would get better and we would then eventually be where we are supposed to be, the top?

Let’s have this conversation.

FT Pause Moment: Should "dummies" be considered as assists? Inspired by Suarez

Well, the UEFA Champions League matchday 2 is behind us now, but some moments stay with us forever. One such performance would obviously be vintage Messi showing up big time for Barcelona but schooling Tottenham Hotspur on the fundamentals of GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) behaviour. The 31-year-old created all of the four Barca goals and scored two as the La Liga champions registered a 4-2 victory at Wembley. Croatia’s Ivan Rakitic and Philippe Coutinho were also on the score sheet, banging some seriously ridiculous goals. One player not on the scoresheet or having a cute statistic for example, an assist, but equally crucial to the overall performance was Luis Suarez.

Two dummies, two goals

Luis Suarez of Barcelona shoots while under pressure from Davinson Sanchez of Tottenham Hotspur during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Barcelona at Wembley Stadium on October 3, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Assists and goals have become some of the most important stats in the modern game. GOATs have been crowned based on such and the value of players continue to be influenced greatly by statistics more than anything else in the digital age, leaving many assuming the role of being unsung heroes. An assist in particular is simply awarded to the person who makes the final pass before a goal is scored. They are considered to have “assisted” the goal, laying it up on the plate for the scorer.

Now, what about those who do the same without touching the ball? On two occasions, Jordi Alba squared the ball into the box that found Messi after Suarez had skipped past the ball, in other words dummying, to draw out the defenders and give Messi the space to find his favorite spot in the net without pressure. In fact, on the first instance, Coutinho and Suarez had to both dummy the ball, confusing the Spurs defenders and aid Messi to deliver his masterpiece. Credit to Alba for delivering the assists by delivering the ball into the box, but what of Suarez’s awareness to know where Messi would be in a glance and drive all the defenders out of the “heat area” without touching the ball but with just simple cheeky movements. What brilliance!

The Uruguayan will not be in the record books for such, now and in the future and maybe even get criticized for not scoring as many goals as a striker. Alba laid up the ball for Messi, but Suarez increased the odds for Messi scoring exponentially. Looks like an assist to me, maybe even more.

“Jordi Alba squared the ball into the box that found Messi after Suarez had skipped past the ball, in other words dummying, to draw out the defenders and give Messi the space to find his favorite spot in the net without pressure.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

South Africa: PSL's "Shakespeare," Steve Komphela, may finally win silverware

A surprisingly trophyless career

Pitso Mosimane and Steve Komphela during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between South Africa and Ethiopia at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on June 03, 2012 in Rustenburg, South Africa.

(June 2, 2012 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

A man popular for his touchline match analysis and fatherly advice to football players, Steve Komphela is as unique as they come. The former Kaizer Chiefs  mentor has endured some tough times in his coaching career, particularly during his time with the mighty Amakhosi but he now looks like he’s on the rise again.

“Bra Steve” as fondly known by many, has come under severe scrutiny so far as his coaching credentials are concerned. During his time at Kaizer Chiefs, Komphela was unable to salvage any cup or league glory for one of the PSL’s big boys. This made him unpopular amongst the Amakhosi faithful, causing the team’s fans to riot every other match calling for the coach’s sacking. It eventually came. What’s more, Komphela has coached a few other Absa Premier Soccer league sides such as Free State Stars, Platinum Stars and Maritzburg United and is still yet to win any silverware. Such a bad record has earned Komphela an unlikeable reputation as many consider him to be an average coach and will remain so until he actually wins something.

Take nothing away from Bra Steve, I consider him to be one of the vastly experienced local coaches in South Africa. Unfortunately, being at a team like Kaizer Chiefs came with high expectations that the 50-year old tactician couldn’t meet. Being trophyless for three consecutive seasons at a team as big as Chiefs is not something easily acceptable especially by the supporters. While others believe the coach was often times than not eluded by mother luck, things were just not falling into place for Bra Steve. His history for not winning any silverware didn't make things easier for him and many thought that misfortune was seemingly following him during his stay at Amakhosi.

“His mastery of the English language is second to none. In almost all of the post match interviews, he is seldom relenting to drop some words of unpopular wisdom in a serious manner that comes across as humorous. His use of rare english words and philosophical quotes can only be comprehended by few but widely accepted by all.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Having recently moved on from Amakhosi in the summer, Komphela was snatched by a Free State side, Bloemfontein Celtic to spearhead the team in the recently started ABSA premiership season. In what has been a terrific start for the team, under Komphela’s management, Celtic have amassed a total of 13 points from the first 5 games of the season, only dropping points against Komphela’s former employers in Chiefs during a 2-2 draw. This excellent run has set tongues wagging from the football fraternity and many have started believing that perhaps Komphela might be onto something here. To crown him for the glittering start to the 2017/18 season, Komphela was awarded the Absa Premiership Coach of the month for August. With Celtic looking like a well-oiled machine that is on a roll, this can probably be the season where Komphela finally breaks his duck and salvages some silverware in his cup-shy coaching career. However it should also be noted that it is still early in the season and a lot could still happen. Nonetheless, the signs are there and certainly football fans have noticed Steve’s “comeback mission” judging from his team’s performances.

He is probably not the first unsuccessful coach, why feature him?

Outside the pitch, Komphela is your “Shakespeare” of the Absa Premiership. His mastery of the English language is second to none. In almost all of the post match interviews, he is seldom relenting to drop some words of unpopular wisdom in a serious manner that comes across as humorous. His use of rare english words and philosophical quotes can only be comprehended by few but widely accepted by all. That’s typical vintage Komphela for you and it is in such moments that make him a popular figure in the football circles of Southern Africa. Being one of the most experienced coaches in South Africa, one would think it is only a matter of time before we see Komphela lift some silverware that has long eluded him. The breezing start to the season with Phunya Sele sele (Bloemfontein Celtic) seems to suggest that. Whether Celtic can go all the way remains to be seen. Can Steve do it? Is he the real deal? You decide.

Three reasons why you should watch the South African League

Andile Jali of Pirates and Luka Modric of Tottenham compete during the 2011 Vodacom Challenge final match between Orlando Pirates and Tottenham Hotspur at Coca Cola Stadium on July 23, 2011 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

(July 22, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Many times we soccer enthusiasts particularly rate European leagues highly because of the exciting and competitive nature of the game in those leagues. These include the English Premier League which is the most watched football league in the world, followed by the Spanish La Liga. But, what about the leagues in Africa? Is there really not something to look forward to in African Soccer Leagues? Certainly not. In this article we take a closer look at the South African Premier League, commonly known as the Absa Premiership and we provide some insights as to why you should highly consider taking some time and watch South African football.

1. It is the home of the famous “Vuvuzela”

African football is mostly known for the strong passion from football supporters who sing their favourite songs about their teams while also chanting songs about their favourite players. In South Africa, the fans do the most. They go above and beyond just singing songs but they add some flavour by blowing their vuvuzelas which most believe helps cheer the players on the pitch. The vuvuzela took centre stage during the memorable FIFA world cup which was held in South Africa back in 2010. The world was introduced to the vuvuzela and most liked the sound it makes when blown. That said, the ABSA premier league provides an endless opportunity for fans wishing to experience and witness how the vuvuzela is blown.

“the Absa premiership has become popular for the showboating exploits demonstrated by some of the players. The famous shibobos and crazy dribbling all add up to the things that make this league appreciated and exciting to watch.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

2. It is one of the most valuable and richest leagues in Africa

Yep it is. With a prize money of 10 million rands (USD 672 000), coupled with cup competitions (MTN 8, Nedbank Cup and Telkom Knockout) that make up a total prize money of close to 20 million rands up for grabs. This league certainly warrants the attention of true football lovers. Because of its value, the Absa Premier League has caught and attracted the attention of some famous footballers and in turn improved the quality of the league over time. Such players include Zimbabwe’s Benjani Mwaruwari who used to play for Jomo Cosmos before moving to the EPL in Portsmouth colors and eventually Manchester City not forgetting Knowledge Musona widely known as the “Smiling Assassin” who used to play for Kaizer Chiefs and now plies his trade in the Belgian First Division A for the most successful club in that league, Anderlecht.The legendary Roger Feutmba who used to don the jersey of Bafana Ba Style in Mamelodi Sundowns and scoring goals as a hobby. In present times, the league has produced quality players such as the South African internationals Itumeleng Khune, Sibusiso Vilakazi and Brighton and Hove Albion’s Percy Tau, just to name a few, all who have become household names.

3. It is home to one of the biggest derbies in the world

Pirates fans celebrate during the Absa Premiership Final match between Orlando Pirates and the Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on May 21, 2011 in Soweto, South Africa.

(May 20, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Lest we forget, the Absa premiership also hosts two of the best teams in South Africa which happen to be arch rivals, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. These two emanate from the same famous South African township, Soweto in Johannesburg. As such, twice a season, both Chiefs and Pirates lock horns in the infamous “Soweto derby” which is watched by more than 90 000 fans at the biggest stadium in South Africa, FNB Stadium. Moreover, the Soweto derby is watched by millions of other football lovers and usually the country comes to a standstill when it is derby time because of the rich and intense rivalry between both sets of the teams’ fans. Personally I have experienced watching the derby countless times and trust me it becomes more than just a game, the passion is real!

Apart from the above reasons, the Absa premiership has become popular for the showboating exploits demonstrated by some of the players. The famous shibobos and crazy dribbling all add up to the things that make this league appreciated and exciting to watch for fans that follow it. With all said and said, don’t you think it's time to widen your viewing appetite and watch the ABSA premier league? I certainly think so.

FT Impact Player Series: Is Man City's Ben Mendy, Superhuman?

We always like to pause and zoom in a little on some unique talents in the game today. Today, we are crossing over to the blue-half of Manchester and think out loud about the incredible talent that is Benjamin Mendy, a French defender with African roots, Senegal to be specific. Let us briefly look at three things that Benjamin Mendy gives the Premier League champions, Manchester City. You will give a ruling at the end on whether the 24-year-old is human or an alien meant to be playing some unknown galaxy football.

Benjamin Mendy of Manchester City in action during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Huddersfield Town at Etihad Stadium on August 19, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 18, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

Energy, pace and power

Mendy rose to prominence in the 2016/17 season where he was a key defensive component of the young Monaco team that won the French Ligue 1 and reached the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League. His switch to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City the following season for £52 million pounds, a then record move for a defender, was part of the infamous exodus of talent from Monaco with the likes of Bakayoko, Mbappe and Bernardo Silva also leaving for big monies. In particular, Guardiola’s acqusition of Mendy for that kind of price seemed ridiculous at the time especially given the fact he had likewise spent big on other fullbacks in the form of Kyle Walker and Danilo - but he sure had a plan and how dare we questioned the wisdom of the Spaniard. The record 100 Premier League points amassed in a title winning campaign for Manchester City was the result. Of course we did not see a lot of Mendy in this record-breaking season because of the ligament injury that sidelined him for the greater part of the season. Now that he is back, most are starting to appreciate why Pep brought him to the club. No one owns the left flank of the pitch like Ben does. He literally runs up and down that channel for the full ninety minutes without showing any signs of exhaustion. His built body allows him to shove most if not all opponents with ease and his carefree personality even shows up on the pitch in form of the risks he takes upfield. Do not be mistaken, Mendy is no dribbler or slick like “modern full-backs” such as Marcelo, Jordi Alba, Alex Sandro or Dani Alves. It’s simply raw energy, pace and power with a defined ability to make pin-point crosses into the box. Think of him as a really accurate bulldozer that does not just go through stuff senselessly.

Even though Manchester City brought only Riyad Mahrez in the summer, with Mendy back, they are looking anew. Guardiola’s tactical tweaks have seen Ben Mendy playing as hybrid and left-back /central midfielder, something we are not sure has ever existed. In his first four premier league appearances, Mendy has provided three assists, made 25 crosses into the box, created two big chances and was also heavily involved in two other goals. Yes, its no cheap talk here - Mendy is real.

“We could not demand Delph and Zinchenko to do what Benjamin Mendy does, in terms of going up and down the wing, attacking space and having his physicality because they have different physical conditions.

We saw Mendy’s quality at Monaco in France, his quality to go forward. When a player has this quality, we must use it, because it’s his ability to create problems.”

— Pep Guardiola, Manchester City Manager

A cool kid

Benjamin Mendy of France celebrates following his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(July 14, 2018 - Source: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images Europe)

Besides the 2018 world cup winner’s footballing abilities, Ben Mendy is what everyone would wish for in a team’s dressing room. Within days of arriving at Guardiola’s camp, the Manchester All or nothing documentary reveals that the Frenchman was already cracking some jokes and teasing his new teammates in beginner’s English spoken with his French accent. A personality truly unique to fearless champions. He is one of the loudest guys in the dressing room, perhaps the most active football player on social media who always has one or two things to laugh about. You may remember the person in jeans who uncomfortably ran onto the pitch to celebrate Raheem Sterling’s last minute winner against Southampton in the 2017/18 EPL season, that was injured Benjamin Mendy. He even started taking selfies with Sterling afterwards in front of cameras. That’s just the way Ben is, serious and unserious at the same time. Many people like him off-the pitch and he is simply iresistable on it, how can it be? Is he human and perhaps the 21st century definition of perfection.

Most team’s battles are won 60% off the pitch and 40% on it, with Ben Mendy adding value both ways - France and Manchester City really have a lot to be thankful of. Just ask Olivier Giroud, a striker who was on a goal drought stretching back to the pre-world cup fixtures, Mendy came very late on for France as a substitute in their recent UEFA Nations League clash with the Netherlands and saved the day. Courtesy of a delightful Mendy cross.

“Mendy is Mendy. He is what he is. Sometimes you want to kill him. Sometimes you say ‘wow, what a player we have. Mendy has a lot of things to improve. Hopefully we can convince him to be calm and forget a bit the social media and focus on what he has to do.”

— Pep Guardiola, Manchester City Manager

What you need to know about the men's AFCON 2019

Are you wondering about the details of the biggest African showcase coming to our screens in 2019 or do you even know its coming? Here’s what you need to know about the biennial Men’s African Cup of Nations otherwise known as AFCON organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Kolo Toure and Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast look dejected after losing to Egypt during the AFCON semi-final match between Ivory Coast and Egypt held at the Baba Yara Stadium on February 7, 2008 in Kumasi, Ghana.

(Feb. 7, 2008 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Brief History

The most successful nation in the tournament is the Pharaohs of Egypt with a record seven titles. North Africa is the most successful region with 10 titles, followed by West Africa with 9, Central Africa with 8, East and Southern Africa with 2 titles apiece.

Current Champions

Cameroon lifted the 2017 AFCON Cup after defeating Egypt, 2-1 in Gabon. The Indomitable Lions sealed their 5th title in spectacular fashion after fielding a team with less known players going against all odds, upsetting the likes of Sadio Mane’s Senegal and Mo Salah’s Pharaohs.

Where and when?

Cameroon was selected to host the 2019 tournament running from the 7th-30th of June 2019. A relatively convenient period that does not clash with the schedule of most club football leagues in Europe and around the world where the players ply their trade. CAF’s President, Ahmad Ahmad did however express concern over the West African nation’s infrastructure readiness to host the tourney with the final decision to be made in the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly on the 30th of September 2018. South Africa and Morocco have emerged as the countries likely to take up the mantle, should Cameroon fall out of favor.

Who is participating in the qualifying rounds?

The top ranked 45 teams on the continent and three winners from the preliminary qualification round were placed in 12 groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will automatically qualify for AFCON 2019, the first edition to pit 24 teams in the finals. Sixteen teams had been participating in the finals before the upcoming 32nd edition.

A Democratic Republic of the Congo supporter cheers during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group C football match between DR Congo and Morocco in Oyem on January 16, 2017. / AFP / ISSOUF SANOGO

(Jan. 15, 2017 - Source: AFP)

Group Stages Fixture Dates

• Matchday 1 ---  20-28 March 2018
• Matchday 2 ---  3-11 September 2018
• Matchday 3 & 4 ---  8-16 October 2018
• Matchday 5 ---  12-20 November 2018
• Matchday 6 ---  18-26 March 2019

Here is a full list of the fixtures.

Players to look out for in the qualifiers

Zimbabwe’s Knowledge Musona locally known as the Smiling Assassin is one such an individual already topping the scoring charts with three goals from matchday one. The list is obviously endless with a wealth of talent both at home and abroad coming together to fight for the continent's most coveted prize. Players which will never be robbed of a mention include Senegal’s Sadio Mane, FIFA Best Top Three finalist Mohamed Salah, South Africa’s Percy Tau, Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessie who featured on our hidden gems series, Alex Iwobi, the majority of shoe shine piano football from Mamelodi Sundowns and many more.

AFCON Fun- Fact

The nicknames of the participating national teams are as vicious as they come. So much to do with lions, eagles, stars and many safari animals, selling the richness of the continent. The possible explanation is perhaps to intimidate the opponent off the pitch before they battle it out on the grass. Some of the names include:

Egyptian players and coaching staff celebrate winning the Africa Cup of Nations final match between Ghana and Egypt from Universitaria Stadium on January 31, 2010 in Luanda, Angola.

(Jan. 30, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

• The Lions of Teranga - Senegal
• The Super Eagles - Nigeria
• Lions of the Atlas - Morocco
• Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets) - Zambia
• Indomitable Lions - Cameroon
• The Elephants - Ivory Coast
• Bafana Bafana ( Boys! Boys!) - South Africa
• Black Stars - Ghana
• Taifa Stars - Tanzania

One lucid moment of the tournament

Zambia won their first AFCON title in 2012 co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, 19 years after most members of Zambian national team on their way to Senegal for a FIFA World Cup qualifier, perished in a plane crash. The plane had just taken off from Libreville, Gabon - the region where the 2012 troops won the title for their fallen heroes.

Relive the Weekend’s Best Moments: Mane Marches On

Is Sadio Mane’s new number 10 shirt working the magic?

Liverpool forward, Sadio Mane seems to be enjoying the new shirt number he is wearing this season. The number that is synonymous to greatness in modern football, offered to only those with the guts to walk the talk.

He continued his wonderful 2018/19 form, showing incredible physicality to stay on his feet after a challenge by Van Aanholt in the box, rounding off the goalkeeper to score the Reds’ second in their 2-0 win away at Crystal Palace. He is currently sitting pretty on the scoring charts, top with three goals after two matches. The same number as Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero.

Sadio Mane of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

Are we in for a real African treat with Mohamed Salah, Aubameyang and Mahrez also expected to make a mark? I guess we will soon find out.

Relive the Weekend’s Best Moments: Iwobi’s shaku-shaku

Iwobi shows off some slick trendy dance moves after scoring against Chelsea

Unai Emery’s start to life at the Emirates has not been the best. The Spaniard is still waiting for his first Premier League win with Arsenal, post-Wenger era. One player who has shown signs of more life and perhaps hinting at unleashing the potential which many believe he has is Alex Iwobi. Just a few weeks after signing a contract extension at the Emirates, Iwobi took it to the pitch and backed up his credentials on the pitch. After being awarded his first start under Emery against Chelsea, Iwobi delivered an encouraging performance that included rapid dribbling on the left wing, menacing runs and all crowned by a super right-footed finish in the box after a string of about nineteen passes by the Gunners.

My highlight was the trending Naija shaku-shaku dance moves he showed off after the goal that lighted up his Nigerian brothers and sisters, at home and abroad. Even though the dance was short-lived with counter-celebrations by his teammates, Nigeria got enough to feel proud.

Arsenal players celebrate after Alex Iwobi's winning penalty after a penalty shoot out during the Pre-season friendly International Champions Cup game between Arsenal and Chelsea at Aviva stadium on August 1, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland.

(July 31, 2018 - Source: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images Europe)

Iwobi had the option to represent his country of birth, England, internationally but chose to wear the Super Eagles jersey, the country of origin for his parents. He has actually made a debut appearance in a Nollywood movie called Inpadisu whose release date is yet to be announced.

France's second World Cup triumph a win for African immigrants everywhere

France's World Cup 2018 winning team featured no less than 15 players with African roots.

Moscow, Russia - Luzhniki Stadium:  With a 4-2 win on Sunday, July 15th, France stepped over Croatia onto the podium for their 2nd ever World Cup title. The historical win marks their first major tournament win since 2000 when they won the European Championship, just two years after their legendary and inaugural World Cup win in 1998. And just like in ’98, France’s current batch of champions features a generous amount of immigrants. That first wave of the Golden Age graced the world with multinational French talents such as Marcel Desailly, Patrick Viera, and even Zinedine Zidane. For France, ’98 marked an unveiling of sorts of a talent pool so rich that for the tournament, then coach Aime Jacquet only selected three Parisians in his World Cup roster. The previous ’84 Euro-winning team had just one. The youth of Africa had created a new formula for the French.

Where was this infamous talent pool located? You’d have to go back to the late 1940s-50s when France was rebuilding the country after the destruction of WWII. By 1965, almost 3 million of France’s population were immigrants. By 1975, after a second wave of immigrants came to France from West Africa and the Caribbean, due to an economic shift and a country-wide labour shortage, 35% of France’s immigrants were African. These immigrants would often relocate on the outskirts of major cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, and in recent decades, these cities have become home to the children and grandchildren of these African immigrants. These cities are separated from Paris only by a single highway that circles around the city like a cage.

Thierry Henry, a youth product of Clairefontaine thrived in World Cup '98 for France

Timing, they say, is everything, but rarely a coincidence. During this same period of time, France were experiencing by far their least successful era in international football. Through 1960-1975, their men’s national team failed to qualify for two separate World Cup tournaments and a European Championship. In 1975, with the “How the f!@# do we get better?!” question creating pressure amidst the FFF (French Football Federation), then president Fernand Sastre created Clairefontaine, an academy for the country’s youth elite. At the time, Clairefontaine was regarded as arguably the finest footballing academy on the globe, as it produced some of the most gifted French players of the budding French Golden Age like Thierry Henry, Nicolas Anelka, and William Gallas. The rest is, what you call, history. 

Today, France's championship-winning World Cup team featured 15 players African roots, including the young man of the hour Kylian Mbappe, who was born to a Cameroonian father and an Algerian mother.  Defender Samuel Umtiti was born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, before emigrating with his family when he was two years old. Fellow defenseman Adil Rami, was born in Corsica to Moroccan parents and is the only player in the squad with North African descent. Midfield general N’Golo Kanté is also of Malian heritage. It has been wonderful for the world to get to see the entire team of heroes as well as their African sports icons embraced for bringing honor to the nation they have chosen to represent.

Mbappe finished the tournament with 4 goals and World Cup's best young player honors. 

During the 2010 World Cup, the team encountered many discipline issues. Instead of an investigation into the dysfunction that had led to such a situation, the criticism was focused on questioning the players’ loyalty to their country since they had roots abroad.

I hope that this national pride continues. It was not too long ago, when in 2011, the French Football Federation and then France manager, Laurent Blanc, faced accusations that they had secretly discussed limiting the number of places for players from ethnic minorities at their headquarters in Clairefontaine that would have seen players as young as 12 passed over in order to make room for their white counterparts.” In 2000, a poll indicated that around 36 percent of the French population thought that there were “too many players of foreign origin in the French football team.” Though the newfound celebration of their multi-racial national team is a positive, it is even more essential that this respect extends to the non-sports playing immigrants in the country who are still dealing with racial and ethnic discriminations based on the color of their skin or the countries they may be migrating from.

Steven Nzonzi, a French midfielder for Sevilla, is born to a Congolese father. 

A fan of the game myself, it has been rather enjoyable to watch the world celebrate the Boys from the Banlieue. Like you, I have read the articles, Facebook posts, and Twitter comments celebrating the French team as the last standing African team in the tournament. As a Cameroonian, these statements have been relatable. A lot of us share a sense of pride when we see moments of African excellence such as this. And while I congratulate France for adding a second World Cup star to their jersey, this is not a hate piece against the country, but rather a challenge to the African football federations. While even the harshest critic would admit that luck was not on the side of the five African nations representing the continent in the 2018 World Cup, the reality has still been a bitter pill to swallow for most. Out of these countries, none made it past the group stage of the tournament. This marks the first time since 1982 where an African team hasn't progressed to the Round of 16 in World Cup competition. AFCON 2019 will represent a chance for the continent to celebrate its culture, and the teams, especially the ones who missed out on Russia, an opportunity at redemption. The question that will be looming over many heads at CAF and the Ghana’s, Nigeria’s, and Cameroon’s of the world is how can we not only retain but continue to improve the youth talent pool in our African countries?