I saw a recent Facebook post by a friend revealing the map of Africa for the 34th edition of the CAF African Football Cup tournament. It displayed a glaring absence of nations from the East and Central regions. Ethiopia and Sudan, once integral to the establishment of the African Football Association in 1957, have been notable absentees for decades.

A champion in 1962, Ethiopia has struggled to qualify since the mid-1970s. The irony is palpable considering their pioneering role in African football's inception.

I recall a match that did capture attention was the clash between underdogs Namibia and giants Tunisia. The surprise victory for Namibia, with a stunning header by Deon Hotto, showcased the beauty of the game—the unpredictability that allows the unexpected to triumph. However, the euphoria was short-lived as Namibia faced a 4-0 thrashing by South Africa, emphasising the melodramatic nature of the sport.

Namibia drew against the group leader Mali and snatched enough points as they managed to qualify for the knockout stages. They seem to be the surprise team of the tournament alongside Equatorial Guinea leaving me wondering if this is the nation's cup for the underdogs. Footballing giants underperformed as Tunisia and Algeria faced an early exit while the Ivory Coast managed to qualify for the round of 16 by the skin of its teeth.

Despite Namibia's precarious standing and eventual triumph in the group, I found myself leaning towards supporting them. It is a sentiment familiar to any football fan—a loyalty that transcends results, supporting the team through thick and thin. With its troughs and crests, the roller coaster of emotions experienced during a game keeps fans engaged until the final whistle.

Football is unifying.

I recall a spontaneous trip to Sebeta town in the newly found Sheger City. It was driven by the adventurous spirit to explore the town. Although the landmark brewery was closed at the time of my visit, the day turned into an enjoyable experience when the local community gathered to watch an Arsenal match at the Grand Dima Hotel. The electric atmosphere both in the Hotel and inside the Emirates Stadium through the TV was contagious and a place where perfect strangers became friends.

It brought a memory when I watched the Netherlands play against Uruguay in the World Cup 2010 tournament. I was in Hong Kong and the bar was filled with Dutch fans who dressed in the unmistakable orange jersey of their team. Sitting next to a gentleman, we exchanged words about the famous Dutch striker Arjan Roben moments before he scored a game-changing goal when the house erupted with screaming. He shook me with both his hands on my shoulder shouting “Roben scored! Roben scored!”