Photo Credit: The Analyst
As we close out an incredible year of global football, one event captured the hearts of football fans worldwide: the 34th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicked off on January 13, 2024, where 24 nations came together in a celebration of football, culture, and talent, culminating in a thrilling finale on February 11th. The host nation, Côte d’Ivoire, claimed a historic 2-1 victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the championship match, delighting home fans and securing their place in AFCON history.
For those of us in the U.S., February 11th was marked as Super Bowl Sunday, but before the NFL spectacle kicked off, nearly 2 billion (yes, that’s with a ‘B’) fans around the world tuned in to watch Côte d’Ivoire lift the trophy on home soil. It was a storybook ending that underscored the passion and pride driving African football to new heights. It’s a testament to the tournament’s growing global reach and influence, making 2024 a landmark year for African football.
AFCON 2024 (2023) delivered unforgettable moments, not least from the dazzling array of talent on display. At least 30 players from 12 nations competing in the tournament also shine weekly in the English Premier League. Their performances are a reminder that Africa continues to produce world-class athletes shaping the global game.
Off the pitch, AFCON’s commercial landscape has been equally dynamic. PUMA’s branding dominated the tournament, but the absence of other major players like Nike and Adidas was hard to miss. It’s surprising, given that global icons like Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané—who represent these brands—are African football royalty. This leaves a wide-open opportunity for other companies to step into the AFCON marketplace and connect with a fanbase brimming with passion and potential.
In the media world, AFCON 2024 set new benchmarks. Broadcast in nearly three times as many networks as its 2021 edition, the tournament reached viewers in countries as far-flung as Brazil, India, Turkey, and the Nordic nations.
As we reflect on these achievements, it’s impossible not to feel the momentum. AFCON isn’t just a football tournament; it’s a platform for African culture, talent, and business to shine on the world stage. From record-breaking viewership to untapped opportunities in sponsorship and media rights, last year’s tournament has reminded us of the boundless potential within African football.
Côte d’Ivoire’s triumphant campaign was the perfect capstone to an unforgettable AFCON, a tournament that once again showcased the power of sport to inspire, unite, and elevate. Here’s to a year of milestones and memories—and to an even brighter future for the beautiful game across the continent.
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