Africa League finally begins
By Lucky Oluoch, October 19, 2023Egyptian football giants Al Ahly FC and Tanzania’s revered Simba SC are set to kick off the inaugural African Footbal League (AFL) campaign at the football-mad city of Dar es Salaam where a beehive of activities already began in anticipation of the extravaganza.
The match that kicks off tomorrow at the 60,000-seater Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, promises fever-pitch action for football enthusiasts, and will run until November 11.
Other team that will be competing for the much-coveted African tittle include Atletico Petroleos (Angola), TP Mazembe (DRC), Esperance (Tunisia), Wydad AC (Morocco), Enyimba (Nigeria) and (Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa).
All matches will be aired live by Mediamax Network Limited.
Anticipation and excitement ripple across the African football landscape as the inaugural African Football League (AFL) gears up to showcase the best of the continent’s football prowess. Beyond the prestige and honor of claiming the title, a substantial financial incentive has set the stage for intense competition among the elite clubs vying for the ultimate glory.
With a guaranteed $1 million (Sh149.7 million) awaiting each of the participating teams, the stakes have never been higher.
The desire of claiming the championship beckons, with the title winners eyeing a substantial $4 million (Sh598.8 million) windfall.
The runners-up and semi-finalists are poised to secure significant sums of $3 million (Sh449.1 million) and $1.7 million (Sh254.5 million), respectively, adding further intensity to the AFL’s knockout format.
The AFL, slated to kick off from October 20 to 11 November 11, has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Visit Saudi, serving as the league’s primary sponsor. This collaboration not only signifies a convergence of African football and Saudi tourism but also underlines the shared commitment to the growth and development of the beautiful game on both fronts.
The visionary partnership between the AFL and Visit Saudi extends beyond the current season, reflecting a mutual dedication to fostering the success and global competitiveness of African football, while simultaneously bolstering the tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia.