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Football

EURO 2024 Best XI: The Ultimate Team of the Tournament

EURO 2024 Best XI: The Ultimate Team of the Tournament

Euro 2024 Best XI: The Ultimate Team of the Tournament | GSB

Spain have won their fourth European title as EURO 2024 comes to a close — so it’s time to look back on the players that lit up the past month. Here’s our Euro 2024 Best XI, featuring only those who made four or more appearances.

Goalkeeper

  • Giorgi Mamardashvili, 7.6 (Georgia): Georgia was one of the surprise packages, reaching to the round of 16 where they were knocked out by Spain. Mamardashvili was key, making 29 saves over four matches.

Defence

  • Joao Cancelo, 7.8 (Portugal): Portugal were eliminated by France in the quarter-finals but Cancelo caught the eye with his modern interpretation of what a right-back can do.
  • Pepe, 7.7 (Portugal): At potentially his last major tournament, Pepe impressed with 34 ball recoveries for Portugal’s rearguard effort.
  • Aymeric Laporte, 7.6 (Spain): Laporte proved he can excel at this level. He made 24 clearances over six games as Spain became European champions again.
  • Nuno Mendes, 8.1 (Portugal): Mendes was exceptional down Portugal’s left flank. He combined quick thinking and quick feet with his football skills.

Midfield

  • Fabian Ruiz, 7.8 (Spain): Ruiz led Spain to the title with his range of passing and two goals from midfield. He was the key man in their success.
  • Jude Bellingham, 7.9 (England): Bellingham had a slow start but grew into the tournament. His highlights included a stunning overhead kick against Slovakia and an assist in the final.
  • Dani Olmo, 7.7 (Spain): Olmo stepped up in Pedri’s absence with three goals and two assists. His goal-line clearance in the final was crucial for Spain.

 

Attack

  • Lamine Yamal, 7.7 (Spain): 17-year-old Lamine Yamal scored an absolute goal against France and played his part throughout, making him a star for now and years to come.
  • Kylian Mbappe, 7.9 (France): Despite playing through a broken nose, Kylian Mbappe led the team with a goal and two assists. It wasn’t quite enough for France this summer.
  • Jamal Musiala, 8.3 (Germany): Musiala lit up Euro 2024 for Germany, scoring three times. However, the tournament ended without a title heading to Munich.

Conclusion

Euro 2024 has been an incredible showcase of talent and moments that will live long in fans hearts; these players in this Euro 2024 Best XI haven’t just shown what they can do but have dragged their teams along with them every step of the way.

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Football

AFCON 2025: Can Uganda Finally Make Their Mark on the Tournament?

AFCON 2025: Can Uganda Finally Make Their Mark on the Tournament?

Uganda AFCON 2025 qualifiers | GSB

Uganda Cranes hope to rectify their error of missing the 2021 and 2023 editions as they are getting ready for their sixth AFCON qualifying bid. After the draw was hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Thursday, July 4, 2024, the AFCON Morocco 2025 qualification group stage will take place from September to November this year.

Group K Opponents

Uganda was drawn against South Africa, Congo and South Sudan in Group K.

  • South Africa: This is the team to beat since they finished third in the 2023 AFCON. With 11 tournament appearances, they bring significant experience. Notably, they set a record in the 1996 AFCON by winning the title on their debut as hosts.
  • Congo Brazzaville: Congo Brazzaville poses a significant challenge. The Red Devils have also qualified for 7 tournaments, similar to Uganda, but their 1972 victory against Mali highlights their potential.
  • South Sudan: However much they may not be among the most experienced teams within Group K, Uganda should not take them lightly. This was proven in last year’s first leg of the qualification campaign, where Uganda lost away from home while hosting South Sudan at Namboole Stadium.

Uganda Cranes’ Challenges

Head coach Paul Put acknowledges the tough road ahead. The Cranes need to surpass their previous performances to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON finals.

  • South Africa’s Dominance: The Bafana Bafana’s track record makes them formidable opponents. Their experience and historical success in the AFCON make them the primary threat.
  • Congo’s Potential: Congo Brazzaville’s historical success and determination to reclaim their glory days add another layer of competition for Uganda.

 

Paul Put’s Strategy

Paul Put insists on the importance of a strong start to build confidence within the team. His strategy includes rigorous training camps and professional preparation.

Emphasizing Professionalism

Put expects his players to prepare themselves professionally, starting with local players before integrating foreign-based talent. Mental preparation is also key to facing the upcoming challenges.

Fans’ Role

Paul Put calls on the fans to rally behind the team, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting the players. The enthusiastic support during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Algeria and Botswana exemplifies the positive impact fans can have.

Conclusion

The qualification path for Uganda Cranes towards AFCON 2025 looks quite steep. With strong opponents and a need for exceptional performance, the team’s preparation and fan support will be critical. Coach Paul Put’s emphasis on professionalism and a strong start aims to guide the Cranes to success

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Football

Top European Goalscorers: An All-Time List

Top European Goalscorers: Legends of the Euros

Top European Goalscorers - Euro Legends | GSB

The games for this year’s European Championship might be grabbing headlines, but have you ever wondered who has cemented their place as a top Euro scorer throughout history? Let’s delve into the archives of Euro football to find the legendary top goalscorers who have left their mark on the tournament.

Euro Kings: Top Scorers in European Championship History

  1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 14 Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo reigns supreme as the all-time top goalscorer in the European Championship. Across five tournaments (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020), he’s amassed a staggering 14 goals. He led Portugal to victory in 2016, solidifying his legendary status. Ronaldo consistently features among the leading scorers, even finishing joint-top scorer in 2012 and 2020.

  1. Michel Platini (France) – 9 Goals

Michel Platini holds the record for most goals in a single tournament, with nine in 1984. He spearheaded France’s triumph that year, scoring in every match, including back-to-back hat-tricks in the group stage. Platini’s exceptional performance cemented him as a Euro scoring legend.

  1. Alan Shearer (England) – 7 Goals

England might still be chasing their first major title since 1966, but Alan Shearer’s scoring prowess in the Euros is well-remembered. He bagged a Golden Boot with five goals in Euro ’96, showcasing his exceptional talent. Across three tournaments (1992, 1996, 2000), Shearer notched a total of seven goals, solidifying his place among the top Euro scorers.

  1. Antoine Griezmann (France) – 7 Goals

Antoine Griezmann led France to the Euro 2016 final, scoring six times and earning the tournament’s best player award. He has tallied seven goals across the 2016 and 2020 tournaments, proving his place among the elite Euro goalscorers.

  1. Ruud van Nistelrooy (Netherlands) – 6 Goals

A powerful forward known for his consistency, Ruud van Nistelrooy scored six goals in just two tournaments (2004 and 2008), etching his name among the top Euro scorers.

Conclusion

This list of top European Championship goalscorers goes beyond individual achievements. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry woven by these legends who have illuminated the Euros with their brilliance.

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Football

AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Uganda’s Road to Glory

Uganda's Road to the 2025 AFCON: A Guide to Qualification Matches

Uganda National Football Team on their Road to AFCON 2025 | GSB

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers have drawn Uganda into Group K alongside South Africa, Congo Brazzaville, and South Sudan. This article dives into Uganda’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers journey, analyzes the competition within their group, and previews upcoming matches.

Uganda’s Group K Opponents

  • South Africa: A formidable challenge from Pot A with a strong footballing tradition, posing a significant hurdle in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
  • Congo Brazzaville: Pot 3’s unpredictable team, capable of causing an upset with their unique playing style. They could be a spoiler in Uganda’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers campaign.
  • South Sudan: The underdogs from Pot 4 might lack experience but possess the potential to surprise in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. Uganda can’t underestimate them.

The Draw Event

The 2025 AFCON qualifiers draw took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Thursday. Former Moroccan international Marouane Chamakh and Ivorian Head Coach Emerse Faé led the ceremony. Ranked in Pot 2, Uganda faced teams from Pots 1, 3, and 4, resulting in their current group for the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers.


Uganda’s AFCON History and Goals

Uganda’s absence from the last two AFCON tournaments fuels their determination to qualify for the 2025 edition. This qualification is crucial as Uganda co-hosts the 2027 AFCON with Tanzania and Kenya. The Ugandan football scene eagerly anticipates a triumphant return to the continental championship through the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers.


Key Dates for the Qualifiers

Qualifying matches for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers are scheduled for September, October, and November 2024. Only the top two teams from each group, excluding the group containing hosts Morocco, will progress to the final tournament.


Group Analysis

  • Group A:Tunisia, Madagascar, Comoros, Gambia
  • Group B:Morocco, Gabon, Central Africa Republic, Lesotho 
  • Group C: Egypt, Cape Verde, Mauritania, Botswana
  • Group D:Nigeria, Benin Libya, Rwanda 
  • Group E:Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Togo, Liberia
  • Group F:Ghana, Angola, Sudan, Niger
  • Group G:Cote d’Ivoire, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Chad
  • Group H:DR Congo, Guinea, Tanzania, Ethiopia
  • Group I:Mali, Mozambique, Guinea Bissau, Eswatini
  • Group J:Cameroon, Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe
  • Group K:South Africa, Uganda, Congo, South Sudan
  • Group L:Senegal, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Burundi

Conclusion

Uganda’s path to the 2025 AFCON presents both opportunities and challenges. Group K features strong competitors like South Africa and Congo Brazzaville, alongside the unpredictable South Sudan. However, with willpower and strategic gameplay, Uganda has the potential to secure a qualification spot in the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers. The September, October, and November qualifiers will be crucial in determining Uganda’s fate. Fans and supporters eagerly await a victorious return to the AFCON scene as the team gears up for these matches.

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Football

EURO 2024 Milestones: Unforgettable Moments & Record-Breaking Feats

EURO 2024 Milestones: Unforgettable Moments & Record-Breaking Feats

EURO 2024 milestones and record-breaking moments. | GSB

The group round of EURO 2024 was a thrilling series of heart-stopping actions, record-breaking achievements, and sudden heroes. Let’s revisit some unforgettable moments from the group stage, ranging from teenage prodigies to experienced veterans.

Young Guns Take Center Stage at EURO 2024

  • Lamine Yamal Takes the Stage: Spain’s Lamine Yamal stole the show in his major tournament debut, becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the European Championship at just 16 years old! Croatia and Italy were stunned by the Barcelona youngster, who showed his capabilities, thus earning himself a place in Spain’s lineup for knockout stages.

Record-Breaking Feats at EURO 2024

  • Bajrami Gives Albania a Flying Start: Albania’s EURO 2024 journey began with a bang! Nedim Bajrami went into the history books as having scored the fastest goal within 23 seconds against Italy in the entirety of this competition. Despite falling short of their target and crashing out early, Albanian fans will forever cherish this goal by Bajrami.
  • Pepe and Ronaldo Eye a New Milestone: With Luka Modric setting a new record, all eyes are on Portugal’s Pepe (41 years old) and Cristiano Ronaldo (39 years old). Could they potentially rewrite history and become even older scorers in the knockout stages?

Speed Demons Leave Their Mark at EURO 2024

  • Sesko Tops Charts with Lightning Pace: Slovenia’s Benjamin Sesko might not have found the net during the group stage, but his electrifying pace proved instrumental in their historic qualification for the knockout rounds. Sesko clocked the fastest speed of the tournament (35.9 km/h) and will be crucial for Slovenia’s chances against Portugal.

Austria’s High-Pressig Football Shines

  • Revitalised Austria Amongst the Best: Under coach Ralf Rangnick, Austria surprised everyone with their high-octane, gegenpressing style of play. They topped Group D with convincing wins against powerhouses like Poland and the Netherlands. Austria’s relentless midfield duo, Nicolas Seiwald and Marcel Sabitzer, covered incredible distances throughout the group stage, setting the tone for their success.

A Legendary Farewell?

  • Luka Modric Makes History in Croatia’s Exit: Croatia’s captain, Luka Modric, defied age by scoring the team’s opening goal against Denmark, becoming the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history (38 years old). Modric’s performance during Croatia’s EURO 2024 journey was remarkable, given that it ended with a heartbreaking draw; it is evidence of Modric’s sustainability and leadership qualities.

Will We See More Record-Breaking at EURO 2024?

With the knockout stages approaching, the possibility of even more records being broken remains high. Pepe and Cristiano Ronaldo, both over 38 years old, could potentially challenge Modric’s new record.

Don’t miss a single moment of the EURO 2024 knockout rounds! Witness history unfold as these record-breaking players and teams vie for the ultimate European glory!

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Football

Elio Capradossi: A Rising Star in Ugandan Football

Elio Capadossi Makes Dream Debut for Uganda National Team!

Elio Capradossi Uganda Rising Star | GSB

Uganda has a new hero! Elio Capradossi, the rising star of Ugandan football, marked his Uganda debut with a memorable performance against Botswana. This article explores Capadossi’s journey, his impressive debut, as well as his impact on Ugandan football.

Elio Capadossi: A Ugandan Star with International Experience

Born in Uganda, Elio Capradossi is the son of an Italian father and Congolese mother. His multicultural background, combined with being raised in a football-rich environment, has significantly shaped his career. To hone his skills, Capradossi attended the famous AS Roma Academy, which has nurtured many football stars. However, his journey wasn’t without challenges; an ACL injury early in his career at AS Roma limited his opportunities to shine.

A Turning Point: Joining the Uganda National Team

Capradossi’s call-up to the Uganda National Team was a turning point for him. Coach Paul Put included him in the squad for the World Cup Qualifiers on May 23rd, 2024, which was received with much excitement by their supporters. Another popular name on this team sheet was Uche Ikpeazu, who had already endeared himself to many Ugandans through his performances on previous assignments.

Elio Capadossi Uganda Debut: A Night to Remember

Elio Capradossi made his debut for Uganda in a thrilling match against Botswana. When Bevis Mugabi was unavailable, Capradossi capitalized on the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities. At Namboole Stadium, he delivered an exceptional performance that left a lasting impression in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. It was his defensive skills and composed approach that contributed to Uganda’s 1-0 victory.

Fan Favorite: Captivating Performance and Bright Future

Fans and critics equally expressed their enthusiasm for Capradossi’s Uganda debut. He was frequently cited as the most exceptional performer and was even awarded the title of “Man of the Match.” He has become a fan favorite due to his capacity to excel in a high-pressure game and adapt rapidly. The excitement surrounding his performance has been real, and discussions regarding his potential continue to dominate Ugandan football circles.

A Promising Future for Ugandan Football

Elio Capradossi’s future with the Uganda appears promising, following his impressive debut for Ugada. His transition from AS Roma to the Uganda national team is a testament to his talent and resilience. Both fans and experts are anxious to observe how he will continue to contribute to the team’s success in future matches. Capradossi’s international experience and dimension strengthen the Cranes’ defense, signaling an exciting future for Ugandan football.

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Football

Euro 2024: Africa’s Contribution to French Team Success

Euro 2024: Africa's Contribution to French Team Success

Euro 2024 French Team: Embracing Multiculturalism and Talent | GSB

The Euro 2024 competition, scheduled to take place in Germany from June 14 to July 14, is projected to showcase not only exceptional football talent but also the beautiful cultural diversity that enriches the modern game. This is particularly evident in France’s Euro 2024 squad, where a remarkable 15 players boast African heritage. These players bring a unique blend of skills, experiences, and playing styles to the French national team, significantly enhancing its overall strength and tactical versatility.

France’s Euro 2024 Squad: A Tapestry of Talent

Presence of players from an African background illustrates how diverse France is as a country. These footballers each contribute different styles, backgrounds, and abilities to them, which make it stronger and more versatile. The multinational nature of such a setup leads to many strategies within various capabilities hence raising quality standards among all participants.

Africa: The Home of Football Talent

Africa has long been the epicenter of football talent, heavily influencing French football. African diaspora players are passionate and enthusiastic, inspiring both teammates and spectators. Their accomplishment is a source of pride for African communities in France and around the world, demonstrating that football can be a powerful instrument for integration and social progress. These players, who have profound African roots, exemplify African football’s depth and diversity. The continent, widely regarded as the birthplace of football talent, continues to develop and influence the global football landscape through its numerous prodigies.

List of French Players of African Origin in Euro 2024

Here is the list of French team players for Euro 2024 with African origins:

  • Kylian Mbappé (Cameroon/Algeria)
  • Ousmane Dembélé (Mali/Mauritania)
  • N’Golo Kanté (Mali)
  • Randal Kolo Muani (DR Congo)
  • Ferland Mendy (Senegal)
  • Youssouf Fofana (Ivory Coast)
  • Aurélien Tchouaméni (Cameroon)
  • Ibrahima Konaté (Mali)
  • Jules Koundé (Benin)
  • Eduardo Camavinga (Angola/DRC)
  • William Saliba (Cameroon)
  • Bradley Barcola (Togo)
  • Brice Samba (Congo-Brazzaville)
  • Dayot Upamecano (Guinea-Bissau)
  • Kingsley Coman (Guinea/Guadeloupe)

Conclusion

Euro 2024 seeks to capture the essence of football that it is; exciting, diverse and deeply human. What is more, French football’s African influence shows that Africa has been continuously propelling and shaping worldwide soccer thereby revealing that this continent remains a great pool of talent and enthusiasm for the world’s most popular sport.

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Football

Nikola Kavazović Vipers SC Coach | A New Era Begins

Nikola Kavazović Vipers SC Coach | A New Era Begins

Nikola Kavazović New Vipers SC Head Coach | GSB

Vipers Sports Club (Vipers SC) has appointed Serbian coach Nikola Kavazović as their new head coach in a two-year deal. This significant move, announced at St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende, signifies a new chapter for the Ugandan club.

 

Nikola Kavazović’s Background

Kavazović, who recently departed Ethiopian Coffee, brings a wealth of experience to Vipers SC. Throughout his coaching career, he has consistently guided teams to victories, making him a valuable addition to Vipers SC.

 

Vipers SC’s Vision

Vipers SC president, Lawrence Mulindwa, reaffirmed the club’s unwavering dedication to modernization and professional quality during the unveiling ceremony. “We are actively addressing all aspects that define a professional team, including assembling the right technical team to achieve our goals,” he declared.

 

Recruitment Process

Mulindwa elaborated on the thorough recruitment process, which attracted applications from Ugandan, African, and international candidates.  Expressing his confidence in Kavazović’s leadership, he stated, “The recruitment process is meticulous and takes time. We are confident that we have found the perfect coach for Vipers SC.”

Backroom Staff

Kavazović will be backed by a diverse and qualified backroom staff, choosen based on his recommendations. This team includes:

  • Fred Muhumuza: Deputy Coach
  • Jose Esdras Costa Lopez: Trainer (Brazilian-Portuguese)
  • Ali Kimera: Goalkeeping Coach
  • Ibrahim Kato: Gym Supervisor
  • Michael Lule: Team Doctor

Discipline and Strategy: Kavazović’s Philosophy

Known for his dedication and strategic approach, Kavazović expressed his enthusiasm about joining Vipers SC. With a touch of humor, he declared, “Pressure is what motivates me,” showcasing his readiness to tackle upcoming challenges. A proponent of the Portuguese football philosophy, Kavazović prioritizes discipline and tactical play.

A New Era for Vipers SC

The appointment of Nikola Kavazović as head coach signifies a new era for Vipers SC. With a strong support team, a clear vision for the future, and Kavazović’s leadership, the club is primed for success.

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Uganda and Manchester United Join Forces to Boost Tourism

Uganda and Manchester United Join Forces to Boost Tourism

Uganda and Manchester United explore a possible collaboration to promote Ugandan tourism through a potential sponsorship deal | GSB

The Uganda Manchester United Collaboration is set to replicate the success of Rwanda’s relationship with English Premier League clubs in improving tourism. By leveraging Manchester United’s international appeal, Uganda plans to increase its global visibility and attract more tourists.

The Concept of Sports Tourism

Sports tourism is a growing industry where countries leverage sports events, teams, and partnerships to attract tourists. This strategy enhances a nation’s visibility and can drive significant economic benefits.

 

The Success of Rwanda’s Strategy

The “Visit Rwanda” campaign, visible on the jerseys of Arsenal and PSG, has set a precedent. This effective branding partnership boosted Rwanda’s tourism industry significantly. According to The East African, Rwanda’s partnership generated USD 160 million in media value in 2022 and helped generate USD 445 million in tourism revenues, thanks to over a million visitors to Rwanda that year.

 

Uganda’s Vision with Manchester United

Uganda’s Parliament proposes a similar initiative with Manchester United. The plan involves advertising Uganda through various platforms associated with Manchester United, including stadium advertisements and football shirts. This Uganda Manchester United Collaboration aims to capitalize on Manchester United’s extensive global fan base.

Potential Benefits of the Collaboration

  1. Increased Tourism: Manchester United’s global reach can help in attracting international tourists to Uganda.
  2. Economic Growth: More revenue for local businesses and improved economy could be achieved if tourism industry is properly boosted.
  3. Brand Visibility: By associating with a well-known global brand such as Manchester United, Uganda’s international image can greatly improve.

Challenges and Considerations

  1. Financial Investment: Such collaborations require significant financial investment, which must be carefully planned.
  2. ROI Measurement: It is essential to establish metrics to measure the return on investment from this partnership.
  3. Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term sustainability of the partnership is crucial for ongoing benefits.

Conclusion

The Uganda Manchester United Collaboration stands a chance of growing Uganda’s tourism sector while enhancing its global visibility. By learning from Rwanda’s successful strategy, Uganda can effectively implement and benefit from this sports tourism initiative.

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Football

Top Eleven African-Origin Players Shining in Euro 2024

Top Eleven African-Origin Players Shining in Euro 2024

Euro 2024 African Players: The Ultimate Guide | GSB

Euro 2024 is an amazing display of talent with African ancestry. These players are not only important to their national teams but also bring in the diverse skills and backgrounds that reflect the diversity of football nowadays.

Goalkeeping Greats:

  • Brice Samba: The French Goalkeeper from Congo: Called up to the French national team by Didier Deschamps in March 2023, Brice Samba is a goalkeeper for RC Lens. Born to Congolese parents, Samba is now France’s second-choice stopper and will take part in his first international competition.

Defensive Dominators:

  • Antonio Rüdiger: Germany’s Rock from Sierra Leone: Born in Germany to a mother from Sierra Leone and a father from Germany, Antonio Rüdiger is one of the world’s best central defenders. He has 68 international caps and two Champions League titles, while being an influential player for both Real Madrid and the German national team.
  • Nathan Aké: The Dutch Ivory Defender: Nathan Aké, who had been pursued by the Ivory Coast Soccer Federation but chose the Netherlands instead, even though his father was born there, The Manchester City defender is playing an important role for the Dutch side during the Euro 2024 campaign.
  • Manuel Akanji: The Swiss-Nigerian Wall: Born to a Swiss mother and Nigerian father, Manuel Akanji plays for Manchester City. His defensive qualities helped City achieve an unprecedented treble in 2023. He remains one of Switzerland’s mainstays at the back.
  • Jules Koundé: French Talent with Beninese Roots: Jules Koundé, hailing from the Girondins de Bordeaux academy, now plays for Barcelona and has been part of France since 2021. His origins are in Benin, and his third appearance is now on the horizon as he gears up with France.

Midfield Maestros:

  • N’Golo Kanté: Mali’s France Engine: His incredible stamina and ball-winning abilities have earned N’Golo Kanté a place as a key figure during France’s victory at the World Cup. Having joined Al-Ittihad in 2023, the Mali-born midfielder returned to the French squad for Euro 2024.
  • Denis Zakaria: Swiss Midfield Maestro: Denis Zakaria chose to represent Switzerland, having been born of South Sudanese and Congolese parents in Switzerland. Zakaria is currently playing for AS Monaco and has had a significant role with the national team at various international competitions.

Attacking All-Stars:

  • Leroy Sané: Germany’s Senegalese Star: Leroy Sané, the son of Souleymane Sané, who captained Senegal in the past; his mother was an Olympic medalist from Germany, declared loyalty to Germany as far back as 2015. This time, he hopes that he will take his Bayern Munich side to Euro glory after being absent from national duty for a long while.
  • Bukayo Saka: England’s Nigerian Gem: Bukayo Saka, who was born in England with Nigerian parents, plays for Arsenal and has won consecutive England Player of the Year awards in both 2022 and 2023. Despite Nigeria’s interest, he decided to join the Three Lions for his second European Championship.
  • Romelu Lukaku: Belgium’s Congolese Powerhouse: At just 16 years old, Romelu Lukaku began his professional career when Anderlecht signed him. Having been born of Congolese parents in Belgium, Lukaku is key as Belgium searches for their first ever European Championship title.
  • Kylian Mbappé: French Prodigy from Cameroon and Algeria: Kylian Mbappe, whose origins can be traced back to both Cameroon and Algeria, began representing France when he turned eighteen years old. His illustrious career, which has seen him break several records and win many titles, makes him the man France needs to help them win their third European title.

A Celebration of Unity:

It illustrates the  and inclusive nature of football that the Euro 2024 is graced by these Afro-heritage players. All their efforts during the tournament are not just for enrichment but also to celebrate different origins, which makes football interesting.