The AFCON final deserved global eyes

AFCON, the African Cup of Nations, is a tournament that is often under-reported and represented in media. Perhaps this is because it takes place during the club football season, but a more likely reason is FIFA and its long standing power imbalances. While FIFA profits enormously from African talent – moved early to European academies and leagues – it has historically underinvested in African football infrastructure and visibility.

There is a clear broadcast bias against the continent. Still, last Sunday’s final did not disappoint. Morocco were chasing a first AFCON title since 1976 and Senegal were aiming for a second crown in five years. The game had a cagey opening. Senegal used transitions to create opportunities whilst Morocco dominated possession. There were few clear cut chances. By the second half, Morocco increased pressure pushing higher with wide overloads especially by Hakimi. Senegal threatened on the counter consistently. Controversially, Crystal Palace forward Sarr appeared to score from a header before being disallowed. This decision was followed by 98th minute stoppage time chaos where the referee was advised by VAR to award a Morocco penalty, which was extremely soft. This resulted in Thiaw, the Senegalese coach ordering his players to leave the pitch, delaying the game for 17 minutes. It would not matter, however, with Brahim Diaz attempting and failing a panenka penalty. Moments latter, at the start of extra time, Pape Gueye scored a decisive goal to win his country’s second African Cup of Nations.