Afia Ohemeng
Doctors say the sun is good for you. I doubt if the same can be said about the ever-popular news outlet The Sun. The news site released its “Best African XI” line-up to thunderous reviews from football fans and nostalgic individuals alike.
Football legends, demi-gods to their millions of followers both national and international are totally revered by fans who will not tolerate any slander. Fans of former footballer turned manager, Abedi Ayew, have described the article as ‘blasphemy’. Other fans also questioned the age of the curator(s) and decided that “only the new generation will mention Salah and Mané in this list”
Like minded individuals were not amazed about the Ayew patriarch’s exclusion from the dream team. Some even went as far as rating my all-time crush, ex-captain of the Ghana Black Stars Stephen Appiah above Abedi Pele.
In my opinion, those seeking the inclusion of Abedi Pele are those wrapped up in the warm arms of nostalgia. Nostalgia is nice, but from what The Sun proves, it will not secure a spot on THEIR list.
Since we do not know the criteria the news outlet used, I see no reason why football fans are disturbed. Chancing on the list, I thought of JJ Okocha, Aboutrika, El Hadary, Roger Miller, Adebayor and even Asamoah Gyan. These are the names that popped up to me, and yet I endure criticism from self proclaimed masters of African Football.
As always, The Sun has created more than a buzz (and if I am allowed to be as dramatic as the paper) and has also caused splits between football families.
