Football is arguably the most watched sport in the world and the COSAFA Cup Challenge will surely attract attention to our shores. To be held a few months after the hugely successful 2nd African Youth Games, the BFA is under immense pressure to emulate the organisers of the Youth Games, and even surpass. Yes; these are totally different sporting events, and the dynamics are hugely different, but some basics are the same and the BFA will have to emulate BAYGOC to ensure that they keep the fire burning.
The BFA will do well to start preparations in earnest immediately and if possible engage some of the individuals who were part of the successful hosting of the 2nd African Youth Games. They amassed invaluable experience that we can use as a nation. We cannot afford to botch any event that we host as we are building a case for bigger sporting events like the All Africa Games and AFCON Finals. I have it on good authority that a Local Organising Committee has been formed and has already started meeting. One can hope that it is made up of passionate, hardworking people who will at times spend some sleepless nights, working hard to have a successful, hassle free COSAFA Cup Challenge. Once again the COSAFA Cup will be a barometer on which we are to measure ourselves as we harbour hopes of hosting bigger sporting Championships, and one day the Commonwealth Games. Who is to say it can’t happen in our lifetime.
