Football fans are often described as the lifeblood of the sport, generating revenue and boosting players’ performance on the field. Yet at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, several coaches have expressed concern over low attendances during the opening matches of the tournament.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who led Cameroon to the AFCON title in 2017 in Gabon and guided South Africa to third place at the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast, said the early stages of the 35th Africa Cup have been marked by a surprising lack of enthusiasm.
“Fans are a crucial part of the game,” Broos said. “Their presence lifts players and creates the excitement that makes football special. Seeing empty stands at a tournament like AFCON is disappointing.”
Zambian media professional and football analyst Isaac Chipatanga added that fans do more than cheer; they contribute to the atmosphere, motivate players, and are a vital source of income for national associations and tournament organisers. “Without fans, football loses much of its soul,” Chipatanga said.
–ChannelAfrica–
