Soccer fans come out for Africa Cup of Nations games
The Africa Cup of Nations is not only about football. The stadiums are full of fans who have come up with various colorful ideas to encourage their teams. There is also plenty of partying on the streets.
Mali fans in Douala
Matches for the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have been taking place across Cameroon since January 9. Mali supporters (pictured) turned out to cheer on their national team, which won its group by beating Gambia at the Stade Omnisport in Douala.
The 'Leone Stars'
This year, Sierra Leone played AFCON for the first time since 1996. The team was successful at first, and fans were pleasantly surprised. All they needed was a draw to get into the last 16, but they lost to Equatorial Guinea.
Tradition meets soccer
Equatorial Guinea fans were ecstatic when their team got into the last 16. Wearing traditional dress, many celebrated with music and dance.
Disappointment for the Black Stars
Ghana was knocked out in the group stage by Comoros, one of the smallest countries in Africa. Whatever happened to the Black Stars, who had started out as one of the favorites to win? Fans are disappointed but won't give up hope for the next time.
Title-holding Algeria crashes out early
Algeria fans were also disappointed to see their winning team knocked out so early on. Cote d'Ivoire beat the reigning champions at the Japoma Stadium in Douala.
An extra special day
These Nigeria fans were particularly pleased to attend AFCON this year. The 24 girls from the Minawao refugee camp in northern Cameroon watched their team play live in the stadium and beat Sudan 3-1.
Burkina Faso fans bring color to the celebrations
Burkino Faso survived the group stage, and fans are looking forward to the next round. What could go wrong for the team with such enthusiastic fans?
Celebrations on the streets
Not everybody can afford a ticket for the matches taking place in statidums in Douala, Bafoussam, Garoua, Limbe and Yaounde, so there is also a lot of celebration happening on the streets of Cameroon. The party is likely to continue to the end of the tournament on February 6. Let the best team win!