Sidenotes for a Continental Cup

A Review of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola

Abstract

Bloodshed, then suspensions, goalkeeper fouls, and extremely poor play—this is how the 2010 Angolan Africa Cup of Nations can be characterized, which thoroughly ruffled the nerves of the football community, presumably stalling a promising initiative that, after a long development, brought increasingly prestigious competitions. The Africa Cup of Nations (African Nations Cup, hereinafter ANC) football tournament, which has been held since its inception in Sudan in 1957 (every two years since 1968), is the continent's most prestigious competition, which is receiving increasing criticism as African footballers flock to the top leagues.