
Sadio Mané of Senegal celebrates victory after winning the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Semi Final match between Senegal and Tunisia at 30th June Stadium
“Over the past decade, a silent revolution has reshaped the landscape of Senegalese football. Far from European stadiums, far from the spotlight of major international competitions, a new ecosystem has emerged, driven by a generation of coaches, executives, and scouts who have ushered the country into an era of methodical professionalization. The revolution has helped national teams win titles across almost every age category, secure successive World Cup qualifications, and—most importantly—has set conditions for the emergence of precocious talents exported to Europe or the Middle East on a yearly basis. All metrics seem to point to the irresistible rise of an African giant, but built into the fabric of this success story is a menacing paradox. …”
Africa Is a Country
Daily Archives: December 28, 2025
The myth of Nigerian football exceptionalism
“For more than four decades, Nigeria has lived inside a carefully constructed narrative of greatness. In the years that followed the civil war, successive governments turned to soft propaganda in an attempt to rebuild national confidence. Slogans such as “Giant of Africa, Africa’s most populous nation, and Good People, Great Nation were promoted as unquestionable truths. …”
Africa Is a Country
How Nigeria held off late Tunisia charge to book place in AFCON 2025 knockouts
“Nigeria beat Tunisia 3-2 in a dramatic Group C clash against Tunisia at AFCON 2025. Having squandered a string of early chances, Victor Osimhen opened his account at the tournament by heading Ademola Lookman‘s cross into the bottom corner. The Atalanta winger got his second assist within five minutes of the restart as his inswinging corner was headed in by captain Wilfred Ndidi. Lookman then added the third goal, finishing off the post from Osimhen’s unselfish assist. But Nigeria made life hard for themselves and Tunisia found a route back into the game when Montassar Talbi headed into the bottom corner. A controversial penalty, converted by Ali Abdi, set up a nervy finish but Eric Chelle’s men held on for their second win of the tournament. Nigeria have confirmed their place as Group C winners — they will face one of the third-place teams in the last 16. …”
NY Times/The Athletic
YouTube: Nigeria vs Tunisia | HIGHLIGHTS AFCON 2025
YouTube: Uganda vs Tanzania | HIGHLIGHTS AFCON 2025
YouTube: Benin vs Botswana | HIGHLIGHTS AFCON 2025
YouTube: Senegal vs Congo DR | HIGHLIGHTS EXTENDED AFCON 2025
