Africa Cup of Nations

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As the Africa Cup of Nations comes to a close with Sunday’s final, we pick three stars for the future...

Emmanuel Mayuka, 21, Zambia (1)
Scored two vital goals to help Zambia top their group, including a lovely hooked volley equaliser against Libya. Currently plying his trade for BSC Young Boys in Switzerland, the forward is reportedly keen to move to a more prestigious league. Linked with African striker-hoarding Newcastle late last year.

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Z is for… Zaire and that free-kick

We know this happened in the World Cup and not the ACoN, but you can’t expect us to leave out this priceless moment.

In 1974, reigning ACoN champions Zaire are 3-0 down to Brazil in their final group game after a 2-0 defeat to Scotland and a 9-0 thrashing by Yugoslavia, and Brazil have a free-kick. As Rivelino pondered where to send the ball, Zaire defender Mwepu Ilunga charged out of the wall to lump it downfield, earning himself a booking.

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Y is for… Yaya Toure

Yaya Toure was crowned African Football of the Year in December, the latest accolade in a career that has seen him win two La Liga titles and the European Cup with Barcelona, as well as drag Manchester City to their first trophy for 34 years.

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X is for… (All Star) XI                 

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W is for… why, when and where to watch

Why? Leroy Rosenior: “It’s a tournament that generates an incredible atmosphere from the fans, and the players usually respond with exciting attacking football. This year will be no different.”

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V is for… value for money

Lowest ticket prices at the Africa Cup of Nations 2012

Group Stages €7.65
QF €9.50
SF €31
Final €46

Lowest ticket prices at Euro 2012…                      

Group Stages €30
QF €40
SF €45
Final €50

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O is for… out of Africa

Players making big-money moves to Europe is often seen as a sign of the improving quality of football on the African continent, but – as our data reveals – there is actually a lower percentage of ACoN stars playing in Europe compared with 10 years ago. Can this be attributed to the absence of Cameroon and Nigeria, or are the domestic leagues now a viable option for budding professionals?