Football or Soccer?

If you didn’t know, football (or soccer as Americans call it) is one of the most popular sports here in Benin. Actually I think it’s one of the most popular sports in the world. Which makes sense to me because it’s an amazing game. Easy to play if you’re a beginner, super fun to watch with friends, and a sport that connects so many different people around the world.

Right now many countries on the continent of Africa are participating in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON). It’s basically the same thing as the World Cup, but this tournament is just for countries in Africa.  AFCON started in 1957 where Egypt became the very first champion of the tournament. Last year Senegal took home the win, and this year we are still waiting and watching to see who will become the next champions. Personally I am keeping my fingers crossed for another West African country to win the cup! Currently the games are being played in the Ivory Coast. The final game is scheduled to play out on February 11 which is ironically the same day as the Super Bowl in the US. Like I said before I’m hoping another West African country can take home the win, but specifically I am rooting for Senegal 🇸🇳 , Guinea 🇬🇳 and Nigeria 🇳🇬(sadly Benin did not make the cut this year).

Football is a big deal here, and everyone is watching the games. It’s been really fun to watch the games especially because the commentary is in both French and English. This is because many of the African countries have their national language as French, English and Portuguese.

Besides the aspect of watching football, I’ve really enjoyed playing for fun while I’ve been here. The kids definitely kick my butt every single time we play, but that’s the fun of it all. For kids here in Benin, especially the boys, football is their outlet. They don’t go ride their bikes or go to the park; they play football. And because they are playing football so much they go through the balls so fast. You would think these footballs are made out of paper by the way these kids destroy them. Sadly this means that I am constantly buying footballs lol. Shout out to Debisi for popping the last one!

There is such a beauty in sports. How it always brings everyone together. And  how everyone is always welcome to play. Really shows how well bonded a community is. Anyways I know this was a pretty short blog, but if you get a chance go watch some of the AFCON matches coming up within the next couple days.