Despite the hype around the ongoing WAFCON […]

Despite the hype around the ongoing WAFCON and exciting entertainment in terms of games like Tanzania beating South Africa, the attendance has been heavily disappointing.
So far, the only match that has attracted a considerable crowd of 21,000 was between hosts Morocco and Senegal.

Many fans and analysts alike have taken keen interest in the matter, questioning why despite the increase of the prize money to $2 million, the tournament has less attraction.

Speaking in an interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), football analyst Richman Mpembamoto said, “The increase of the prize money to $2 million is a huge incentive; we are hoping that it will attract more funds, because if you look at the turnout, it’s below par. I think CAF should do a better job at marketing.”

Initially the WAFCON was scheduled to take place in March, but it was pushed to July. CAF attributed the shift to an overlap in calendars with domestic leagues.

Could this be another factor? However, Mpembamoto stated that the attendance is likely to improve as the tournament progresses.
He warned that the low attendance could affect the mood of the games, as crowds are a motivator for the players.

So far, the tournament has delivered some sparks, like Tanzania upsetting South Africa 2-1 and Ivory Coast beating Burkina Faso by 4-1.

The women’s game in Africa has become widely recognized, with teams like the Copper Queens exporting Africa Player of the Year Barbra Banda and Barbra Banda Kundananji as well as Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga and her sister.

As the tournament progresses, many are hoping that the low attendance will not take over the conversation more than the skills and impact of the players.

Samuel Mutale