The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially introduced the match ball for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in Cote d’Ivoire. This ball, named ‘POKOU,’ is the result of a collaboration between CAF and PUMA.
The ‘POKOU’ ball is named in honour of the legendary Ivorian forward, Laurent Pokou, an iconic figure in African football.
Pokou’s remarkable achievement of scoring five goals in a 6-1 victory over Ethiopia during the 1970 Afcon edition remains a record for the most goals scored in a single Afcon final.
This official ball prominently features the three main colours of the Cote d’Ivoire flag—white, orange, and green. It incorporates the latest technology designed to revolutionize the game not only in Africa but also beyond.
Laurent Pokou, often nicknamed “L’homme d’Asmara,” is widely recognized as one of the greatest players in the history of Ivorian football. In tribute to his significant contributions to football in the West African nation, one of the match venues for the upcoming Afcon in San Pedro has been named the Laurent Pokou Stadium.
During the official unveiling of the iconic ball, Laurent Pokou’s son, Erwan Pokou, presented it to the attendees. Erwan expressed the deep emotional significance of the moment for his family, as the official match ball was named after his legendary father.
Erwan Pokou shared his sentiments, saying, “This is an emotional moment for my family. It is a great honour bestowed on my late father, who dedicated his life to Ivorian football, to have the official match ball for a tournament taking place in none other than Cote d’Ivoire named after him.”
He also expressed gratitude to CAF and the Local Organizing Committee (COCAN) for celebrating national heroes, emphasizing the impact this gesture will have on inspiring and motivating future generations. “The family appreciates the efforts by CAF and the Local Organising Committee (COCAN) to celebrate heroes and heroines to motivate and inspire future generations to follow in their exemplary steps,” Erwan added.
The tournament is scheduled to take place in various cities, including Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro, and Yamoussoukro, adding to the excitement surrounding the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.
