The 2023 African Nations Cup celebrates culture, unity, and the incredible skills of young athletes and features 20 teams representing African communities across Victoria.
Over three weekends, from Saturday, 2nd December to Sunday, 17th December 2023, the tournament takes place at Keilor Park Reserve and Ralph Reserve in West Sunshine, bringing together talented African-Australian youth soccer teams from across Victoria, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and passion for the game.
Football Empowerment Director Tom Yabio said the first week of the annual event was a "testament to vibrancy and spirit" of both football and the community.
“As we gather for the Annual African Nations Cup Victoria, we are not just celebrating football; we are celebrating the strength, resilience, and diversity of our community," he said.
"We believe in the transformative power of sports, and through this tournament, we showcase the incredible talent and passion of our African-Australian youth. Together, we're not just developing soccer skills; we're cultivating what's natural in our community—strength, unity, and boundless potential.”
Football Empowerment was established in 2016 by a group of young people from the western suburbs of Melbourne. Building on their passion for football, these youngsters desired more and dreamt bigger for the CALD communities in the Westside; organisation has become the medium for many young people who are at risk of disengagement.
The first weekend of the tournament provided a vibrant atmosphere, creating a fantastic weekend of matches that showcased the rich talent within Melbourne's African-Australian youth with the Keilor Park crowd coming alive with alive with enthusiastic teams, passionate supporters, and a vibrant atmosphere.
As we head into Week 2 on Saturday, the 9th, and Sunday, the 10th of December at Keilor Park Reserve, the excitement continues to build. The final group stage matches and the highly anticipated Women's Tournament is set to captivate audiences, promising a weekend of intense competition and thrilling moments. Sunday's Quarterfinals will be a decisive showdown of skill and determination as the top teams compete for a coveted spot in the Semi-Finals.
Week 3, scheduled for Saturday, 16th, and Sunday, 17th December 2023, will feature the Semi-Finals and the Grand Final at Ralph Reserve in West Sunshine, providing a fitting culmination to this year's tournament.