Afcon 2021: Youths predict winner, top players

With the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations currently underway in Cameroon, many youths in Uganda are still unaware that Africa’s top football showpiece is on. This can be partly attributed go the fact that Uganda did not make it to the tournament but also because of the distractions caused by Covid-19.

However, some of the youths we spoke to said they are keeping tabs on the tournament which ends on February 6, 2022. They made their predictions regarding which team will take the trophy and the players that will shine.

Predictably many settled for African footballers who ply their trade in the Premier League because it is the league they follow. Below are some of the predictions from the youths.

Andrew Murodo, 26, Graphic designer

I think Cameroon will take it because they are at home so they have home advantage. I have not watched many games because of my work schedule but I follow the tournament on social media.

I think Mohamed Salah will be the player of the tournament because he has been on form for Liverpool who I support.

Lenny Adringa, 24, boda boda rider

Nigeria will take the trophy. They have started well in a very tough group. As for the player of the tournament, I will go for Vincent Aboubakar of Cameroon who has already scored four goals.

Martha Asiimwe, 24,

I enjoy football although I am not very conversant with African soccer. But I think Senegal is very strong and I will not be surprised when they win the cup. Sadio Mane will be the player of the tournament.

Ivan Muwaya, 27, market vendor

Cameroon has started strongly, and I think they will win the trophy. I have supported Cameroon since the days of Samuel Eto’o.  I think Vincent Aboubakar, their striker will be the player of the tournament.

Abubaker Kasirye, 31, businessman

Egypt will take the cup. They did not start well but they will gain form as the tournament continues. Of course, their danger man, Mohamed Salah will be the player of the tournament. I have not watched the tournament consistently but once in a while I follow the games.

Mike Musoke, 22, student

Senegal will take it because they have a deep squad full of stars. Their goalkeeper Edouard Mendy who plays for Chelsea will be the player of the tournament.

Paul Masaba, 25, businessman

I will go with Algeria to defend its title. They did not start well but they have good players like Riyad Mahrez who I think will be the player of the tournament. I have watched the tournament in bits because of other obligations like taking children back to school.