African Cup Of Nations - 23rd Jan 2008
African Cup of Nations News
Features
Archived News
- Latest News
- 4th Feb 2008
- 30th Jan 2008
- 26th Jan 2008
- 25th Jan 2008
- 23rd Jan 2008
- 19th Jan 2008
- 8th Jan 2008
- 29th Nov 2007
- 23rd Nov 2007
- 22nd Nov 2007
- 22nd Aug 2007
- 15th Apr 2007
- 26th Mar 2007
- 19th Mar 2007
- 12th Mar 2007
- 5th Mar 2007
- 6th Feb 2007
- 29th Jan 2007
- 15th Jan 2007
- 8th Jan 2007
- 2nd Jan 2007
- 19th Dec 2006
- 12th Dec 2006
- 7th Dec 2006
- 27th Nov 2006
- 20th Nov 2006
- 19th Nov 2006
- 7th Nov 2006
- 10th Oct 2006
You Snooze You Lose
The first few days of the African Cup of Nations has thrown up some very interesting results and has certainly confirmed that the depth of African football is reaching new heights. Guinea put in a thoroughly efficient performance against Ghana, a team who have proved to be a tough proposition against the likes of Brazil. But for a rash tackle by the otherwise excellent Oumar Kalabane and a volley from Sulley Muntari’s left howitzer, it could have been a different result. Nigeria and Cameroon’s defeats are further evidence of a fascinating and encouraging trend; that the old powers of African football can no longer expect victory just by turning up. If the Super Eagles and the Indomitable Lions don’t take to the pitch with a focused mindset and willingness to work hard, they will get beaten. The fact that these two giants did not make it to the World Cup two years ago should have alerted them to this fact. Now everyone waits to see if they can bounce back, for it cannot be doubted that these two teams are blessed with some of the World’s best players.
Return of Sudan
It was an absolute delight to see Sudan return to the Cup of Nations. There are few things more pleasing than seeing a former footballing power return to the big stage after troubled times. Despite the score line, Sudan did show that they have plenty to be proud of. The team, though a little short in terms of putting chances away, fabricated some superb passing moves. The pacy backline looked decent but was unfortunately caught by some superb Zambian finishing. Sudanese football can still be positive, the best is yet to come. The team may need to improve fitness and concentration but these are eminently coachable traits. Meanwhile, Zambia’s performance would have been a real eye opener to many who have not followed the successes of Zambian football in recent years. Combining blistering pace across the park with good teamwork and organisation, Zambia look to be a real threat and could push the groups big guns all the way. It is particularly good to see the U20 stars like Mayuka and Mulenga take to the pitch. The future looks bright.
Please forward all press releases and feature ideas to Jake Brown on jake@newafricansoccer.co.uk