Winnipeg, MB – Winnipeg’s diverse African communities have come together once again for the Manitoba African Cup of Nations, a tournament designed to unite them through their shared love of soccer. The sixth edition of this annual event kicked off at the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex in Fort Garry on Saturday.
Six years ago, the competition featured only four teams: Ghana, Senegal, Eritrea, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This year, the tournament has expanded to include 16 teams representing various African national communities, along with one team representing Canada. These teams will compete for the prestigious tournament trophy.
“Africa is a vast community, a vast continent … but if there’s one language that unites us all, it’s the language of soccer,” said Gode Katembo, president of the Canadian African Cup of Nations. “The tournament is about bringing communities together, creating a safe space where youth and athletes can showcase their talents.”
For the first time, the tournament finals will be held at a professional soccer field, Princess Auto Stadium, home to the Blue Bombers and Winnipeg’s Canadian Premier League team, Valour FC.
“Every year, the tournament grows,” said Seidu Mohammed, who co-founded the event with Katembo. “Everyone is eager to play soccer, and it brings us together as a community.”
Communities Represented in Competition
In one of the opening matches on Saturday afternoon, Kenya faced off against Ivory Coast. Ivorian coach Cedric Cotte noted the competitiveness of the tournament, especially against Kenya, a frequent rival.
“They’ve always won,” Cotte said. “We’re trying our best to beat them this time.”
Kenya’s coach Dennis Maritim acknowledged the challenge. “They’ve strengthened their squad with some very good players,” he said. “We did our homework, too.”
Team Kenya player Anjolaoluwa Paul Odedina, a veteran of the tournament, expressed his determination. “We have more motivated players. Our coach has been working hard, training us day in and day out,” he said. “We’re here to win and carry the cup.”
On another pitch, the two-time champion Democratic Republic of Congo played against Team Somalia. Congo player Issac Milambo spoke about the high expectations for his team.
“As champions, every team is coming for us,” Milambo said. “We’re supposed to repeat history, and we expect to win every game just like we did last year.”
Despite the pressure, Milambo enjoys the excitement that the tournament brings, likening it to international football events. “Playing in this tournament is almost like a dream,” he said. “Every team has its community and fans. When our fans start cheering and dancing, we start scoring.”
The finals of this year’s tournament are scheduled for August 4.
Source: Swifteradio.com
