Republic of Ghana vs. Republic of Chelsea
There’s word today that Chelsea has struck a deal that will allow midfielder Michael Essien to play in Ghana’s first two group games in the upcoming African Nations Cup. Beyond that, Essien’s availability for Ghana remains up in the air.
While some have brought up the debate about whether it is more important to play for your country or to play for the club that pays you millions, I think the larger issue here is the absurd timing of the African Nations Cup.
Holding the continent’s premier tournament in the same year as a World Cup and right in the middle of the European club season makes no sense to me. It is like forcing runners to participate in a half marathon the night before they take part in the New York City Marathon.
Does anyone really believe that the African teams that have qualified from the World Cup have anything to gain from playing in this tournament? Their players don’t need the added strain of extra games and their coaches don’t need the added pressures if their teams disappoint.
Africa deserves a world class tournament to decide the continent’s champion. Unfortunately, the current setup falls well short of being world class.
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Comments
By Myk | December 30th, 2005 at 5:35 pm 
I think ur being ignorant in the sense the African Cup of nations is less than world Class. Its been longer runnin than the Euros. By the way, how do you think all these European teams find their african gems. Through the African cup of course. I understand that the timing is bad but to call it lacking world class is ignorant. No one cares about the Gold Cup or the Copa America. But arguably the best players in the world play in the Copa America. I think its the lack of clubs treating these non-european tournaments with respect is what makes the tournaments appear less important than they are. And by the way, its not just Ghana vs. Chelsea. If you know enough about soccer, you will realize that Chelsea has issues with Drogba and Ivory Coast, Tottenham just threatened its striker, Mido about coming back injured or out of shape, and Bolton is slugging it out with the Nigerian FA.
Anyways, enough ranting. Nice blog by the way, just wish u would be a little less condescending.
Posted from 
Canada
By Moni | January 4th, 2008 at 3:06 pm Africa Cup of nations for the Africans !!! So you with all your bullshit critics , don”t buy African players BIG EURO-CLUBS !!
And go fuck yourself, Football in Africa is still pure , not like the comercialized foot of europe.
And Africa has already a world class tournament , just recognize !!
Posted from 
Netherlands
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