All eyes are on Côte d’Ivoire as the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) gears up for an exciting start. Originally scheduled for July 2023, the continental football extravaganza is set to unfold this year, promising fans a thrilling tournament.
This marks Côte d’Ivoire’s second time hosting the prestigious event, with the opening match scheduled for Saturday, January 13. The host nation, two-time AFCON winners, will face off against Guinea-Bissau at the newly constructed Ébimpé Alassane Ouattara stadium, with kick-off set for 8 pm local time.
Africans across the continent eagerly anticipate the clash, as the tournament brings together 24 teams divided into six groups. Nigeria, a football giant, is set to take on Equatorial Guinea on Sunday in the second match of Group A.
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Reigning champions Senegal are keen on retaining their crown, adding to the competition’s intensity. Reports suggest that a massive crowd of at least 1.5 million people is expected to attend the event in various cities, including Yamoussoukro and Abidjan.
Côte d’Ivoire has invested nearly 1 billion CFA francs, equivalent to approximately 1.6 million dollars, in hosting the tournament. This significant investment reflects the nation’s commitment to delivering a world-class football spectacle and fostering the spirit of unity and competition among African nations.
As the AFCON 2023 kicks off, football enthusiasts and supporters are in for a month-long celebration of the beautiful game, showcasing the talent and passion that define African football.
