Obama Cup puts focus on Africa

Posted: 2010-04-28 11:04

US President Barack Obama, who is hoping to attend the World Cup in June, is putting his focus on soccer and Africa.

Not only has Obama asked Fifa to give consideration to bringing the World Cup back to the US in 2018 or 2022, but is being honoured by a special competition, the Obama Cup, to be staged in the US next month, with special consideration to teams from Africa.

Ghana's Black Stars, Nigeria's Super Eagles and the Harambee Stars of Kenya – where Obama has his ancestral roots – have invited to participate with other teams from around the world.

According to a report carried by the BBC Sport, both Nigeria and Ghana plan to feature players from their domestic leagues in the tournament which will be held from May 22-26.

Ghana, who finished in third place at this year's Wafu Cup in Nigeria are taking the same squad to the US.

"This tournament in the US will serve as a good preparation ground for our boys ahead of the CHAN tournament in Sudan," Ghana coach Herbert Addo said.

While Ghana is using the US tournament to prepare for the CHAN, Nigeria plans to use it to expose their local players.

Nigeria failed to qualify for the inaugural African Nations Championship (CHAN) in the Ivory Coast and the next edition scheduled for Sudan in January.

"We have confirmed our participation in this tournament and it will be an excellent platform for our boys to play against other teams from across the world." NFF spokesman Ademola Olajire.

http://kickoffnigeria.com/news/15103/obama-cup-puts-focus-on-africa.php

Good one! More exposure for the home-based lads.