Once again, the African Cup of Nations is just about to commence in South Africa. This is the 29th edition of a very prestigious football festival. The African continent abounds in many sporting talents and geniuses and these are going to be displayed when the games begin. There is no denying the fact that one of the powerhouses of African football, Egypt missed out once again in this celebration of football talents in 2013. All the 16 countries would be competing for one giant trophy which was previously won by the Chipolopolo(Cooper Bullets) of Zambia, as they shot all their opponents with their spectacular display of football. Each country's team is aiming for the trophy, but we all know that at the end of the day, only one winner would emerge with the losers going back home to the drawing board to strategise and come back another time. Tournaments like these bring to the fore the true sense of nationalism for one's country. Passions and emotions are at their highest levels when the games are being played. The missed penalties, squandered opportunities in front of goal, blunders committed by players, controversial refereeing decisions, the attitude of the supporters at the various stadia, the fight for screening rights, and a host of other football related matters will dominate the various media, both print and electronic for almost a whole month when this tournament commences on the 19th of January. The ability of the host country, South Africa to organize a good tournament would also at the end of the day be brought to the fore. As usual, the football scouts hunting for African talents would be at the various stadia to make sure they spot future stars for their teams in Europe and Africa. But as we embark on this emotional and passionate soccer festival, let us have it in mind that, in a game of football, three things are involved, a win, draw or a loss, and we as supporters of our respective countries must be ready and willing to accept any outcome. May the best team win the African Cup of Nations 2013, good luck to all the participating teams, let us ensure fair play at all the game venues. To the rest of the world from Africa, i say, we love our football, bring the game on.
