Ghana captain Andre Ayew took center stage during the arrival of the Black Stars in Ivory Coast for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 27 players, along with the technical team and officials of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), flew from Ghana in bright, stylish Kaftans, elevated by striking Kente draped around their bodies upon arrival
While the elegant appearance of the team made waves on the internet, it was the cultural celebration that stole the show. Local dancers, assigned to welcome contingents from various countries participating in the tournament, showcased their best moves to entertain the arriving teams.
The dancers initially served the Black Stars players who stepped out first, but the attention shifted to Andre Ayew when he made his entrance. The dancers rushed to give him a rousing welcome with their dexterous feet and flexible bodies, acknowledging the presence of the captain, set to play in the AFCON for the eighth time.
The reaction of the troupe when Black Stars Captain 🇬🇭Dede Ayew appeared was so warm!
— George Addo Jnr (@addojunr) January 11, 2024
One Capito! pic.twitter.com/CV538t5xLO
The team is preparing for their first game against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14, 2023, a day after the opening of the tournament. Subsequent clashes with the Pharaohs of Egypt and the Mambas of Mozambique are on the agenda as the Black Stars aim to redeem themselves from the disappointments of the 2021 edition, where they exited the group stage after a defeat to debutants Comoros.
Andre AYEW’s all goals in #TotalEnergiesAFCON, PUT SOME RESPECT ON HIS NAME, 21 Gun salute 🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡 pic.twitter.com/lgh2FLkwf2
— F I I F I T A C K I E💎 (@fiifitackie) January 11, 2024
The four-time champions, who last lifted the AFCON trophy in 1982, are eager to make amends and hope for success in the upcoming competition.