Africa Cup of Nations

The first round is over, with a few surprises.

First, powerhouse Senegal has been eliminated and will not make the quarterfinals. Their three games were two draws and a loss to Angola. They never really got going in this tournament, despite some incredible play from Colorado Rapids keeper Bouna Coundoul (IT'S BOUNA TIME).

Other surprises include the elimination of Morocco in favor of Guinea, and Nigeria's troubles. Unfortunately for Mali, the team I picked as a dark horse for the tournament, they lost out to Nigeria on goal difference and won't advance to the quarterfinals. This hurts me too - when I interview Malians for my thesis, it will be more difficult to talk soccer!

For my bracket, I think Ghana will beat Nigeria and then Cameroon to make it to the final, while on the other side, Cote D'Ivoire will beat Guinea and then Egypt. A final of Ghana vs. Cote D'Ivoire would be a great game - I think Ghana will win.

For video of the Africa Cup of Nations head over to http://www.ghana2008.tv/.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I agree a Ghana-Ivory Coast final would be good but I expect one of Egypt or Cameroon to spoil the party.

Adrian said...

I could see Egypt making an upset, but Cameroon hasn't impressed me so far. I would be very surprised if Ghana didn't make the final.