African teams at the World Cup are proving that they deserve their seats at the main table.
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Articles on African footballers in Europe
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A win is possible - but only in 2026 or 2030 and only if African teams get to play more high level internationals more regularly.
The lack of a system to support youth development is just one reason why Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda have produced few top footballers.
The Caf African Player of the Year is named on 21 July – but it’s only one of eight trophies being handed out.
Aware of the high chance of failure, young African talents show remarkable creativity and resilience as they dream of being the next Sadio Mané.
Thanks to the growing appeal of African football stars and a dream final, Afcon is establishing itself on the world sporting map.
Because of the growing fame of African football stars, the tournament is now watched in more than 160 countries worldwide.
Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament is hugely important for Cameroon - politically, economically and on the pitch.
Given the impact of African players in European football, it’s remarkable how few are able to secure jobs in football in Europe after their playing days end.
Behind the multi-racial composition of the elite European teams competing in the tournament lies a complex and painful history.
Top contributors
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Professor of Health and Kinesiology, University of Texas at Tyler
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Research fellow, University of Passau
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Professor of Communications, Howard University
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Senior Lecturer in Sport Business Management, Sheffield Hallam University
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Professor, Aalborg University
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Reader in Human Geography, Loughborough University
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Reader in Sport & Exercise, Ulster University
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Edward S. Mason Senior Lecturer in International Development, Harvard Kennedy School
