Ghana goalkeeper Richard Ofori insists that Africans should not be concerned by the what Europeans think of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Ofori was in action on Monday night, as his nation squandered a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 against Mozambique. The result now leaves them on the brink of elimination and will need other results to go in their favour as they hope to be one of the four best third-placed teams.
Some have pointed blame at the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper as well as veteran forward Andre Ayew for the two late goals they conceded, adding to Ofori's woes, as he was also criticised for his performance in the first match against Cape Verde.
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Nevertheless, an even bigger topic has been making the rounds lately, with growing suggestions that some confederations, overseas clubs, and players do not respect the competition.
Egypt's Mohamed Salah faced a bit of backlash recently when news broke that he will be imminently returning to Liverpool to recover from his injury. This left many questioning his commitment to the tournament and country, prompting his agent to explain further why such a decision has been taken.
Several players have been asked about this perception that the rest of the world seems to have regarding AFCON, including Ofori and Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly.
The Black Stars goalkeeper says it shouldn't matter what other people think of the tournament if Africans take pride in it themselves.
"We must all support it as Africans, and then we raise our game, and then we make sure our tournament becomes successful and beautiful," Ofori told the Associated Press.
"That's the most important thing. What a European nation thinks or whatever they are showing or doing or whatever, it's not our problem. The problem for Africans is that we must focus on our game."
Koulibaly also added: "I don't understand why some people and some players respect more the clubs than the country. But you know, Europe is not the same.
"Sometimes I might get some coach who didn't want me to come to AFCON, but I always go against them. It's my choice.
"My choice is to play for my country. If they are not happy, I will find another club that respects my country and respects all the work I'm doing."
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