By Godwill Odilu
Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe expressed confidence that the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast won’t witness a repeat of the tragic incidents that marred the 2022 tournament in Cameroon.
“I am satisfied the appropriate steps have been taken to make sure we totally avoid the painful experience we had in Cameroon,” stated Motsepe, addressing reporters in Abidjan ahead of the opening game between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau.
The 2022 AFCON in Cameroon was overshadowed by a tragedy at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde, where eight people lost their lives and many more were injured in a crush and stampede before the last-16 match between Cameroon and the Comoros.
Ivory Coast has invested approximately $1.5 billion in infrastructure improvements, including the construction of the 60,000-capacity Ebimpe Olympic Stadium on the outskirts of Abidjan, set to host the opening game and the final on February 11.
To ensure security, around 17,000 police and soldiers will be deployed during the month-long tournament.
Motsepe, who assumed the role of CAF president in March 2021, acknowledged the avoidable nature of the Cameroon accident, stating, “For as long as I am president, whether I know or don’t know, whether I am aware or not aware, I ultimately have to take responsibility for anything that happens.”
Speaking about Ivory Coast’s preparations, Motsepe expressed satisfaction, saying, “I am satisfied that there is a huge amount of determination and commitment, and I think we are on the right track.”
The 24-team tournament will unfold in six stadiums across five cities, with matches hosted in Abidjan, Yamoussoukro, Bouake, San Pedro, and Korhogo.
