Shines at African Football Night in Abidjan
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – The second edition of the African Football Night, held at the Latrille Events festival square in Abidjan, was a spectacular evening celebrating the continent’s finest football talent. The event honored both current and legendary players for their contributions to African football, and once again, the ceremony dazzled with its memorable setting and exceptional atmosphere.
The night’s star, Yaya Touré, further solidified his legacy in African football by claiming two prestigious awards. The Manchester City midfielder, whose dominance in the sport has earned him three consecutive African Ballon d’Or titles, received the NFA Honorary Award. This rare achievement places him alongside legends like Abedi Ayew Pelé and Samuel Eto’o. The Ivorian was also presented with the NFA Grand Prix, which recognizes the best African player of the season. Touré was nominated alongside fellow stars such as Didier Drogba, Gervinho, Seydou Doumbia, Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Cameroon’s Vincent Aboubacar, and Nigeria’s Uche Ukechukwu.
Touré’s father, Mory Touré, was present to accept the awards on his son’s behalf, adding an emotional touch to the evening. The event also marked a significant moment for African football, as it looked ahead to next year’s competition in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
The jury, led by former Cameroonian international Patrick Mboma, made their selections, recognizing other outstanding football figures for their exceptional careers. Iconic players such as Anthony Baffoe, Antoine Bell, Roger Milla, and Rabah Madjer were honored with Honorary Awards, cementing their place in African football history.
As in previous editions, the event also acknowledged the vital social contributions of players. The Kalou Foundation, established by former Ivorian international Bonaventure Kalou, was awarded for its humanitarian work in Côte d’Ivoire. Additionally, a posthumous award was given to Algerian sports journalist Faouzi Majoub, who passed away earlier this year, recognizing his profound impact on African sports journalism.
The evening also featured cultural tributes, including music and dance, celebrating the global influence of African football. The event’s promoter, Yves Sawadogo, expressed his satisfaction with the ceremony’s success: “This is the second consecutive year that we have brought together the cream of African football, and it is a real satisfaction for us. We believe in the growth and development of African football and will continue to support its advancement,” he said.
Looking forward, Sawadogo wished good luck to the five African teams set to represent the continent at the upcoming World Cup in Brazil. The event wrapped up with a call to action, as the gathering of football legends in Abidjan underscored the vibrant future of African football.
The African Football Night will return next year, with the 2024 edition set to be held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, promising another night of celebration for Africa’s footballing icons.
