That poem by Joseph Koffigoh is a powerful and poetic condemnation of Willy Sagnol’s remarks — weaving history, pride, and defiance into a strong cultural response.
Koffigoh uses vivid imagery to recall the painful legacy of the slave trade connected to Bordeaux, linking it to modern-day racism and stereotyping of African players like Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, Emmanuel Adebayor, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. He highlights how these players have proven their worth repeatedly on the world stage, making it clear that talent and intelligence are not determined by skin color.
The poem also honors legends like Basil Boli and Abedi Pelé, emphasizing the skill, intelligence, and contribution of African players to football and society. And while Koffigoh expresses disappointment in Sagnol, he also acknowledges the good times when French coaches and teams valued merit over origin.
Overall, this poem is a heartfelt rebuttal — a reminder that respect and recognition should transcend prejudice, and that Africa’s footballers have long earned their place at the top through talent and determination.
Would you like me to analyze or explore any part of the poem in more detail?
