"AFCON Is Our Culture, We Are Proud of It"– Adebayor

"AFCON Is Our Culture, We Are Proud of It"– Adebayor

Sampson Adedeji

Former Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor has described the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a true reflection of African culture, stressing that the continent should remain proud of the tournament’s unique identity, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking on the significance of AFCON beyond football, the former Arsenal and Manchester City striker noted that the competition has always been deeply rooted in culture, spirituality, and collective identity.

“We would arrive at the stadium singing, glorifying God, singing gospel just to motivate ourselves. 

That’s how we grew up,” Adebayor said. “I see the young players doing the same thing.”

According to Adebayor, while the game continues to evolve, the cultural essence that defines African football has not been lost. 

Instead, he believes it has adapted to modern times and is now being showcased proudly on a global stage.

“Culture has not been lost; it has evolved and now it is proudly on display for the world to see. I see our culture rising, and we can show it to everyone,” he added.

The former Togo captain emphasized that AFCON should not attempt to mirror other continental or global competitions, insisting that its strength lies in its distinctiveness.

AFCON, he explained, uniquely blends football with culture, spirituality, and identity in a way no other tournament does, making it special and irreplaceable.

As the Africa Cup of Nations continues to grow in organization, visibility, and global credibility, Adebayor’s remarks serve as a reminder that progress should not come at the expense of identity.

AFCON, he concluded, is different by nature and that difference is exactly what makes it one of the most celebrated competitions in world football.