Africa’s big influence on Euro 2024
With the Euro 2024 now in its final between Spain and England, more than 42 players of African descent have showcased their diverse talents at the competition, highlighting Africa’s big influence on the tournament’s global reach.
The UEFA European Championship, commonly known as the Euro, is one of the most-watched football tournaments worldwide, showcasing some of the best talents the sport has to offer.
This year, Euro 2024 in Germany witnessed a remarkable representation of players of African descent, highlighting the rich diversity and multiculturalism inherent in modern football. The tournament’s final will be played on July 14.
France
France boasts 14 players of African descent in their Euro 2024 squad, emphasizing the country’s diverse talent pool. Brice Samba, originally from DR Congo, has established himself as a formidable goalkeeper. Ferland Mendy, with roots in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau, is known for his defensive prowess.
Dayot Upamecano and Jules Koundé, from Guinea-Bissau and Benin respectively, solidify France’s defense. In the midfield, William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté bring their Cameroonian and Malian heritage to the game.
Up front, France’s attacking options included Kylian Mbappé, whose lineage traces back to Cameroon and Algeria, and Ousmane Dembélé, connected to Mauritania and Mali.
Randal Kolo Muani (DR Congo) and Bradley Barcola (Togo) complete the squad with their versatile offensive skills.
Belgium
Belgium’s squad features nine players of African descent, each contributing unique strengths. Ikoma-Loïs Openda (Morocco and DR Congo) and Johan Bakayoko (Rwanda and Ireland) add flair to the Belgian offense.
Midfielders Dodi Lukebakio (DR Congo) and Amadou Onana (Senegal and Cameroon) provide a robust presence, while Orel Mangala (DR Congo) and Youri Tielemans (DR Congo) ensure control and creativity.
Switzerland
Switzerland’s eight players of African descent reflect the country’s multicultural makeup. Yvon Mvogo (Cameroon) and Manuel Akanji (Nigeria) anchor the defense.
Denis Zakaria, with roots in DR Congo and South Sudan, adds strength to the midfield, complemented by Breel Embolo (Cameroon) and Noah Okafor (Nigeria).
Kwadwo Duah (Ghana), Dan Ndoye (Senegal), and Mohamed Amdouni (Tunisia) bring their offensive capabilities to the Swiss squad, showcasing a blend of skill and heritage.
Spain
Spain squad includes Lamine Yamal, a teenage sensation born in Spain but with Moroccan and Equatoguinean roots. The winger became the youngest player (16 years and 338 days) to ever start and score at an European Championship match.
Nico Williams born in Spain with Ghanaian roots also caught public speculation at the tournament. Nico Williams helped Spain win all of their group matches at Euro 2024 – the only side to progress with a 100% record.
England
England’s Euro 2024 list includes six players of African descent, each making significant contributions. Bukayo Saka, with Nigerian roots, is a versatile winger.
Kobbie Mainoo (Ghana) and Eberechi Eze (Nigeria) offer creativity and flair in midfield. Marc Guéhi (Côte d’Ivoire) and Ezri Konsa (DR Congo) provide defensive solidity, while Joe Gomez (The Gambia) ensures strength at the back.
Germany
Germany’s five players of African descent highlight the country’s evolving football landscape. Antonio Rüdiger, of Sierra Leonean descent, is a defensive stalwart. Jamal Musiala (Nigeria) brings youthful energy to the midfield.
Source: Pulse
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