The Africa Cup of Nations is the main tournament for national teams on the African continent. Its first edition was held in 1957 and, until 1968, it was played irregularly. Since then and until today, the tournament has been played every two years.
This is a tournament that, although long underrated, is gaining increasing prestige, especially among professional footballers who, even though they were born in European countries and play in the continent's major leagues, do not hesitate to give up everything to defend the colours of their country of origin.
A veritable showcase of stars has graced the African Cup of Nations: George Weah, Samuel Eto’o, Jay-Jay Okocha, Didier Drogba, Roger Milla, Yaya Touré, Michael Essien, among many others. These names alone are enough to gauge the level of football that characterises the tournament.
And as if that weren't enough, this 2022 edition, held in Cameroon, features stars such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Riyad Mahrez, Achraf Hakimi, Franck Kessié and Wilfried Zaha. A real treat for fans.
Speaking of winners, there is one clear leader: Egypt, with seven titles, followed by Cameroon with five and Ghana with four. Among Portuguese-speaking African countries, Angola stands out, having hosted the tournament in 2010. Their best performances to date were precisely those of Angola, which reached the quarter-finals in 2008 and 2010, and Cape Verde, which also reached that round in 2013.
Two Portuguese-speaking African countries are participating in the 2021 edition, which is being held in January 2022: Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde. Both managed to qualify for this final phase and, although they were placed in difficult groups, expectations are high thanks to the growth and commitment these countries have shown to football.
At Fútbol Emotion, we will be following this tournament daily via social media, with results, match schedules and boot spotting.
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