President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has praised the rapid growth of African football, insisting that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has become more competitive and commercially appealing under the leadership of CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe.
Speaking exclusively to Metro TV, Okraku—who also serves as Second Vice President of CAF—highlighted governance reforms, financial transparency, and strategic partnerships as key factors driving the tournament’s steady rise in quality and global appeal.
“The prize money for the AFCON is now in excess of 10 million dollars. Having been to Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and most recently Morocco, one can clearly say that AFCON is growing and becoming more competitive under the leadership of Dr Motsepe,” Okraku stated.
Recent editions of the continental showpiece have been characterised by surprise results, improved infrastructure, and enhanced tactical discipline, reinforcing the belief that African football is entering a new and exciting era.
According to Okraku, the increased competitiveness has significantly boosted AFCON’s credibility, making it more attractive to fans, broadcasters, and sponsors across the world.
“With AFCON continuing to grow in stature, African football is firmly on an upward trajectory,” he added, crediting collective effort and strong leadership for the progress made.
The recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations saw Senegal defeat hosts Morocco in the final to claim their second AFCON title. Morocco had hoped to end a 50-year trophy drought on home soil, but the Teranga Lions proved too strong on the night.
In the third-place playoff, Nigeria’s Super Eagles overcame Egypt to secure the bronze medal at the tournament, which was hosted in the North African nation.
