The Confederation of African Football (has officially unveiled the match ball for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) scheduled for January 13 – February 11 2024 in Cote d’Ivoire.
The ball which is named ‘POKOU’ is a collaboration between Caf and PUMA.
The ball is named after Ivorian legendary forward Laurent Pokou, a doyen of African football whose five goals in the 6-1 victory over Ethiopia at the 1970 edition of Afcon remains a record during the competition's final.
The official ball features the three main colours of the Cote d’Ivoire flag – white, orange and green, whilst incorporating the latest technology that will revolutionize the game on the continent and beyond.
Nicknamed L’homme d’Asmara, Pokou is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of Ivorian football.
It is in recognition of his contribution to football in the West African country, that one of the match venues for Afcon in San Pedro is christened Laurent Pokou Stadium.
Erwan Pokou, his son, presented the iconic designed ball to the audience in attendance during the unveiling.
Erwan said that it was an emotional moment for the family after the official match ball was named after their legendary father.
“This is an emotional moment for my family. It is a great honour bestowed on my late father who gave his life to Ivorian football, to have the official match ball for a tournament taking place in no other place than Cote d’Ivoire named after him,” he said.
He further went on to thank the continental football body for celebrating a country hero which would in turn inspire the upcoming 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 will take place in the cities of Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro and Yamoussoukro.