The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the match ball for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place in Egypt from June 21 to July 19. This announcement coincides with the start of a new partnership between CAF and sports equipment manufacturer Umbro, which will supply the official ball for the tournament. The ball, named the Neo Pro, has been designed specifically for the competition and represents a key element in the spectacle of Africa’s premier football event.
The Neo Pro ball has been engineered to meet all FIFA standards, ensuring optimal performance for players at the highest level. Umbro emphasizes that the ball incorporates a Teijin microfiber outer layer with a hexagonal texture, which enhances both touch and control. This technical specification allows players to handle the ball with greater precision, facilitating passing, dribbling, and shooting, and ensuring that the quality of play meets the expectations of millions of viewers worldwide.
In addition to its technical qualities, the Neo Pro ball has been designed with aesthetics in mind. Its design draws inspiration from the colors of the Egyptian national flag—black, red, and white—reflecting the host country’s identity and culture. The ball is constructed with 14 panels, which, according to Umbro, offer a larger striking surface. This feature not only improves the player’s ability to control and strike the ball but also ensures consistency in flight and bounce, contributing to more accurate and exciting gameplay throughout the tournament.
The introduction of the Neo Pro ball comes at a historic moment for the Africa Cup of Nations. The 2019 edition is the first to feature 24 teams, expanding from the previous 16-team format and promising more matches, greater competition, and increased excitement for fans across the continent and around the world. The tournament will showcase Africa’s top football talent, with players expected to adapt quickly to the new ball to perform at their best in high-stakes encounters.
CAF’s collaboration with Umbro reflects a broader commitment to raising the standards of African football, both on and off the pitch. By partnering with a reputable equipment manufacturer, CAF ensures that the tournament is equipped with high-quality tools that enhance the performance of players while also delivering a visually striking product for fans. The Neo Pro ball symbolizes the blend of tradition and modernity, combining cutting-edge technology with elements inspired by the host nation’s culture.
As the countdown to the opening match in Egypt begins, anticipation builds around the Africa Cup of Nations, with the Neo Pro ball set to take center stage in what promises to be a memorable tournament. Players will rely on its performance characteristics to execute skillful plays, while fans will appreciate the thoughtful design and connection to Egypt’s national colors. The Neo Pro is more than just a ball; it is a symbol of African football’s growth, innovation, and passion, ready to be showcased on one of the continent’s biggest sporting stages.
With its launch, the Neo Pro is poised to make a lasting impression, combining technical excellence with cultural significance, and helping to deliver an exciting, high-quality Africa Cup of Nations for players and fans alike.
