What happened during the Afcon tournament in Morocco ,and especially in the final between Morocco and Senegal, has left many football lovers across the continent disappointed and asking serious questions.

Afcon is supposed to unite Africa .It is meant to showcase talent, culture, passion, and fair competition. But when controversy overshadows football, we must talk about it -not in anger ,but in truth.

Across our continent ,young girls have talent ,passion ,and big dreams -but their journey in football is often much harder than it should be.

At grassroots level, parents and guardians are often the first supporters of a young player .They are the ones who:

Buy boots and kits ,pay transport to training and games ,wake up early for matches ,encourage or discourage dreams. In many African communities, if a parent believes in you ,you go far.

"One of the biggest challenges young African footballers face is lack of opportunities. Talent is everywhere in Africa - in townships, villages, school fields and dusty grounds.

Grassroots coaching is not about winning trophies It's about teaching, guiding, and shaping lives. At this level ,a coach is a teacher ,a role model ,sometimes even a parent.Many young players come from difficult backgrounds. For them ,football is not just a game - it's hope.

And the Coach becomes the person who gives direction, discipline, and belief.

"Africa is full of raw football talent .Every township ,village ,and community ground has players with incredible ability. But the sad truth is this : Most of these players are never seen .Not because they are not good -but because scouts don't know where to find them, and players don't know how to be visible. "

These are the places where dreams begin-often with no cameras, no scouts ,and no sponsors-just passion and a ball.

Africa has natural ability, speed,creativity, and passion.

Challenges:

Lack of equipment

Poor training facilities

Limited access to qualified coaches

How these limitations affect player development and confidence.