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OPINION

8 African Legends Who Didn’t Win AFCON In Their Time

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8 African Legends Who Didn't Win AFCON In Their Time | Fab.ng

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is no longer just a football tournament for Africa! It’s become such a huge deal that people all over the world are excited to watch. But even though it’s such a big competition, some of Nigeria’s most talented football players haven’t managed to win the AFCON trophy yet. That’s pretty surprising, right? Well, here’s a list of 8 African legends who didn’t win the AFCON in their time.

1. Didier Drogba

Didier Drogba joins board of Ivorian Ligue 1 outfit Williamsville Athletic Club | Goal.com Nigeria

Football legend Didier Drogba, who was famously known for his powerful strikes, surprisingly never lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy despite playing 105 times for his home country, Ivory Coast, and scoring an impressive 65 goals.

Drogba was widely considered one of Africa’s greatest strikers. He shone brightly for Chelsea, winning many titles. But with Ivory Coast, luck wasn’t on his side. He reached the AFCON finals twice, in 2006 and 2012, but heartbreakingly lost both times on penalties.

Adding to the bittersweet story, Ivory Coast finally clinched the AFCON title just a year after Drogba’s retirement. While it wasn’t a happy ending for him, it showed the strength of the team he helped build.

2. George Weah
Black History Month: How George Weah's 'miracle' 1995 Ballon d'Or win put Black and African players on the map - Eurosport

George Weah is one name that echoes through the halls of football history, especially in Africa. His achievements on the pitch are like trophies stacked high, with no other African player coming close. The crown jewel among these achievements was winning the Ballon d’Or, the most prestigious individual award in the world!

Arsene Wenger, a football legend himself, spotted Weah’s talent back in 1988. Weah became the blueprint for strikers of today with his speed, skill, and goal-scoring prowess.

But while he dominated on club teams, bringing home titles in France, Italy, and England, he couldn’t quite replicate that magic with his home country, Liberia. Despite his best efforts, Weah could only guide them to the African Cup of Nations twice, and sadly, they weren’t able to advance beyond the group stage on either occasion. This is what makes him one of the greatest players to ever play, yet he never graced the biggest stage—the World Cup. He may not have lifted the World Cup trophy, but his legacy as an African footballing king remains untarnished.

3. Frederick Kanoute

One of a Kind – Frederic Kanoute | beIN SPORTS

Frederick Kanoute wasn’t just another player who kicked the ball around in England’s Premier League. He shone brightly there, then went on to dazzle in Spain with Sevilla, scoring tons of goals and helping them win big trophies. But Kanoute wasn’t all about club glory. He was also a hero for his home country, Mali, leading them to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in 2024! His amazing skills even earned him the title of African Footballer of the Year in 2007.

4. Kanu Nwankwo

Nigerians celebrate Kanu Nwankwo - P.M. News

Kanu Nwankwo is a football superstar and one of the luckiest, smartest, and most talented players Africa has ever seen. He did amazing things on the pitch in his home country, Nigeria, and even played for top teams like Ajax, Inter Milan, and Arsenal. You couldn’t have asked for more success!

But there was one trophy he just couldn’t grab—the African Cup of Nations. He came sooo close in 2000, reaching the final with Nigeria, but Cameroon took it home after penalty kicks. So close, but still a legend!

5. El Hadji Diouf.

Should El Hadji Diouf be considered an African great? | Goal.com Nigeria

El Hadji Diouf was a retired soccer star from Senegal who used to zip around the field as a winger or forward. He was a key player for his home team in the early 2000s, even helping them reach the amazing quarter-finals of the 2002 World Cup! Things weren’t quite as smooth in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) though. While Diouf and his team made it all the way to the final in 2002, they sadly lost to Cameroon in the end.

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6. Asamoah Gyan

Asamoah Gyan - Player profile | Transfermarkt

Ghana’s football hero, Asamoah Gyan, was a big deal on the world stage, known for banging in goals left and right at the World Cup. But at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), things were different. He led his team all the way to the championship game twice, in 2010 and 2015, but heartbreakingly, Ghana lost both times. So close, yet so far from lifting the trophy!

7. Michael Essien

Essien: I almost joined Liverpool and Paris Saint Germain before Chelsea switch | Goal.com

Michael Essien, a superstar footballer from Ghana, used to rule the midfield! Now, he is a member of a Danish Superliga club in Denmark. He even played for Ghana over 50 times!

Essien became a real hero at Chelsea, winning lots of trophies with them. While he couldn’t quite add the African Cup of Nations title to his collection (Egypt snatched it in the 2010 finals!), his career was still amazing.

8. Emmanuel Adebayor

Emmanuel Adebayor - Player profile | Transfermarkt

Emmanuel Adebayor was a real star on the soccer field, especially when he played in England for teams like Arsenal and Manchester City. He also did amazing things for his home country, Togo.

People still remember his incredible skills and speed, and he even won the title of African Player of the Year in 2008! While he couldn’t quite lead Togo to win the Africa Cup of Nations, he helped them get all the way to the quarterfinals in 2013, which was a big accomplishment. So, even though he didn’t get the trophy, he was still a legend for Togo!

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LIFESTYLE

How To Avoid Billing This December

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How To Avoid Billing In December | fab.ng

As a Nigerian adult, you understand that December isn’t merely a festive season—it’s the ultimate billing battlefield. In this case, knowing how to avoid billing this December can be your financial lifeline.

The month transforms into an elaborate financial obstacle course where every social engagement becomes a potential wallet-draining experience.

Picture this: you’re suddenly expected to match expensive aso-ebi for your partner’s distant cousin’s wedding, shell out cash for elaborate office hangout festivities, purchase thoughtful gifts for an extensive network of friends and family, grab concert tickets for the hottest “detty December” events, and somehow maintain some semblance of financial sanity.

Each commitment is strategically designed to empty your bank account, with Sapa waiting eagerly in the wings to completely demolish your January savings.

The universe seems to have conspired with social expectations to orchestrate a complex financial challenge, transforming December into an unofficial billing Olympics where your wallet is the primary competitor.

But here’s the good news: you can become a strategic “shege survivor” by mastering how to avoid billing this December with calculated precision and smart financial manoeuvres.

In this comprehensive survival guide, we’ll explore tactical approaches to navigate the treacherous December spending landscape, ensuring you emerge victorious without sacrificing your financial stability or social reputation. Prepare to become the ultimate December financial ninja!

1. Always Complain Like It’s Your Birthright

Nobody wants to bill someone who complains every five minutes. If you consistently make a point of complaining about your financial situation whenever you get the chance, the likelihood of being asked for money will drop drastically.

The only exception is if you have people around you who are heartless and completely audacious—if that’s the case, there’s a solution in step two.

2. Trade Your Flashy Phone for a ‘Torchlight’

Do you see that iPhone 14 Pro Max of yours? That big phone that attracts unnecessary attention? It’s essentially a billboard screaming, “I’m open for billing!”

To avoid billing, sell it and invest the money in preparing for next year’s challenges. No one will suspect you of being a “billionaire in transit” if you’re using a humble Nokia torchlight or an old-school TECNO phone.

Picture this: someone asking you for money while you’re holding a phone that looks like it belongs in 2003. They might even feel sorry for you and give you some spare change.

The goal here is to avoid billing by making it clear you’re not the person with deep pockets.

3. Buy Okrika Clothes

As the saying goes at the “Okrika” stores, “na mumu dey go boutique.” Avoid billing by steering clear of designer clothes that scream wealth and immediately mark you as a target for requests.

Instead, buy “Okrika” (secondhand) clothes and proudly share how much you paid when people compliment you. Tell them, “You won’t believe how much this outfit cost; it was just 500 Naira!” and make sure to add, “I’m making do with the little I have…”

This strategy helps position you as the king or queen of thrift, ensuring that nobody dares to ask you for money or extravagant contributions.

4. Avoid Calls Like a Pro

Screen all your calls, and be strategic about who you answer. The call from your cousin in the village? We both know it’s not “Merry Christmas” they’re about to say—it’s more likely “I need money for the New Year.”

To avoid billing, activate your Do Not Disturb (DND) mode and only return calls from people who won’t ask for a handout.

If you must respond, use WhatsApp messages so you can carefully craft your excuses without feeling pressured.

5. Go Solo: Break Up With Your Partner

Let’s be real—being in a relationship is one of the major sources of billing in December. To avoid billing and enjoy some peace of mind, consider going solo this season.

Enjoy your money without worrying about shared expenses, and enter the New Year without emotional or financial baggage. You deserve it!

When you want to avoid billing in December, it isn’t just about saving money—it’s about preserving your sanity and entering January without the financial hangover.

These strategies will help you avoid billing and ensure a peaceful, financially secure holiday season. When you’re sipping zobo in the comfort of your home instead of crying over debt recovery meetings, remember to thank me.

If you found these tips helpful and want more, visit here. And remember not to fall in love this December!

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OPINION

11 Ways To Build Emotional Connection With Your Woman

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How to build emotional connection with a woman | fab.ng

Building a deep emotional connection is crucial for lasting romantic relationships. Understanding how to build an emotional connection with a woman requires genuine effort, empathy, and consistent communication.

Building a strong emotional connection with your woman is more than just physical attraction or shared interests. Emotional intimacy is the glue that holds couples together.

Here are eleven practical ways to foster this deep connection:

1. Prioritise Quality Time

How to build emotional connection with a woman? One of the most effective ways is to prioritise quality time together. This means putting away distractions like phones and focusing on each other.

Engage in activities you both enjoy, whether it’s a shared hobby, a simple conversation, or a romantic dinner. These moments create lasting memories and strengthen your bond.

How to build emotional connection with a woman | fab.ng

2. Active Listening

To truly understand your woman, you must listen actively. This involves paying full attention, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on her feelings. Active listening goes beyond merely hearing words.

Avoid interrupting or formulating your response while she’s speaking. When learning how to build emotional connection with a woman, focus entirely on her when she speaks. Show that you value her thoughts and emotions.

Maintain eye contact. Put away digital devices. Avoid interrupting. Reflect back on what you’ve heard to demonstrate understanding. Show genuine interest in her experiences.

Ask follow-up questions that reveal you’re truly engaged. Validate her feelings without judgment. This approach creates a safe emotional space where she feels heard and respected.

3. Express Gratitude and Appreciation

Show your appreciation for your woman through words and actions. A simple “thank you” or a heartfelt compliment can go a long way.

Recognise her efforts, both big and small, and express gratitude for her presence in your life. This positive reinforcement strengthens your emotional connection.

4. Physical Touch and Emotional Affection

Physical touch is a powerful way to connect with your woman on an emotional level. This doesn’t necessarily mean intimate acts.

Simple gestures like holding hands, unexpected hugs, and gentle touches on the arm, hair, and neck can convey love and affection. These physical cues deepen your bond and create a sense of emotional security and intimacy.

Understanding how to build emotional connection with a woman involves recognising her unique affection preferences. Some women appreciate frequent physical contact, while others prefer occasional, meaningful gestures.

How to build emotional connection with a woman | fab.ng

5. Open and Intentional Communication

Open and honest communication is essential for a healthy relationship. Share your thoughts, feelings, and fears with vulnerability. Create a safe space where she can express herself without judgment. By being open and honest, you build trust and intimacy.

Communication is the cornerstone of emotional intimacy. Learn her communication style. Some women prefer direct conversations, while others appreciate subtle emotional nuance.

When discovering how to build emotional connection with a woman, communicate regularly and meaningfully. Share your thoughts, feelings, and daily experiences. Create moments of genuine conversation beyond surface-level interactions.

6. Surprise Her with Thoughtful Gestures

Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on your emotional connection. Surprise her with a thoughtful gift, plan a romantic getaway, or simply leave a heartfelt note.

These unexpected gestures show that you care and are thinking of her.

7. Celebrate Milestones Together

Celebrate life’s milestones, both big and small, together. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or a personal achievement, these moments create shared experiences and strengthen your bond.

8. Express Vulnerability

Emotional connections deepen when partners share authentic feelings. Men often struggle with vulnerability, but it’s essential when understanding how to build an emotional connection with a woman. Share your fears, dreams, and personal challenges.

Demonstrate emotional intelligence by opening up about your inner world. Talk about your insecurities and past experiences. This transparency invites her to connect more deeply and builds mutual trust.

9. Show Consistent Emotional Support

Support goes beyond physical assistance. This means you have to prioritise her emotional landscape. Be present during her challenging times.

Offer comfort without attempting to fix everything. Listen empathetically. Validate her emotions. Demonstrate that you’re a reliable emotional anchor she can depend on during difficult moments.

10. Cultivate Shared Experiences

Shared experiences create emotional memories. Plan activities that allow genuine connection. Try new experiences together. Take classes, travel, or explore mutual interests.

These shared moments become emotional touchstones in your relationship. They create opportunities for deeper understanding and mutual growth when learning how to build emotional connection with a woman.

11. Practice Emotional Empathy

Empathy transforms relationships. Put yourself in her emotional shoes. Understand her perspective without judgment. Recognise her emotional triggers and respond with compassion.

When mastering how to build emotional connection with a woman, emotional intelligence becomes your greatest asset. Validate her feelings, even when they differ from your perspective.

Conclusion

Building an emotional connection requires continuous effort, patience, and genuine commitment. These strategies provide a roadmap for creating deeper, more meaningful romantic relationships.

Remember that every woman is unique. What works for one might not work perfectly for another. Stay adaptable, communicate openly, and approach emotional connection with sincerity and respect.

By implementing these strategies consistently, you’ll create a profound emotional bond that transcends surface-level interactions, fostering a relationship built on trust, understanding, and genuine love.

If you found this article helpful, click here to check out more.

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HOW TO

How To De-Escalate Arguments In Relationships

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Arguments In Relationships: 6 Tips To De-escalate Them | fab.ng

Arguments in relationships test every couple’s communication skills. They reveal deeper emotional dynamics. Healthy partnerships transform conflicts into opportunities for understanding.

Navigate arguments in relationships with strategic approaches. Stop escalation before it destroys the connection. Recognize that disagreements happen naturally. Your response determines relationship quality.

These relationship arguments require emotional intelligence. Listen actively. Control reactive responses. Use compassionate language. Avoid accusatory statements. Show genuine respect.

Understand that arguments in relationships aren’t battles to win. They’re conversations to understand. Each disagreement offers a chance to strengthen bonds. Develop mutual empathy.

The final key to managing arguments in relationships involves staying calm. Take deep breaths. Pause when emotions run high. Focus on solutions, not problems.

Successful couples treat arguments as growth opportunities. They communicate openly and respect each other’s perspectives. They commit to mutual understanding.

Choose connection over being right. Transform conflicts into moments of intimacy and trust.

Below are 6 tips you can use to de-escalate arguments in relationships:

1. Take a Break

Arguments in relationships can quickly spiral out of control. When conversations become heated, take a strategic timeout. Step away from the intense moment.

Give yourself space to reset emotionally. Take a walk to clear your mind. Listen to calming music. Practice meditation techniques. Breathe deeply and center yourself.

The goal of taking a break during arguments in relationships is emotional regulation. Return to the conversation when both partners feel calm and rational. This approach prevents saying hurtful things in the heat of the moment.

2. Active Listening

Mastering active listening transforms arguments in relationships. When your partner speaks, give full attention. Silence your inner defensive voice. Avoid interrupting or preparing counterarguments. Focus entirely on understanding their perspective.

Ask clarifying questions. Repeat what you’ve heard to ensure comprehension. Show genuine interest in your partner’s feelings. Demonstrate that you value their emotional experience.

3. Use “I” Statements

Language matters in arguments in relationships. Replace blame with personal vulnerability. Instead of accusatory statements like “You always ignore me,” express your feelings directly. Say, “I feel lonely and disconnected when we don’t communicate.”

“I” statements reduce defensiveness. They invite empathy and understanding. They transform potential conflicts into opportunities for a deeper connection.

4. Avoid Personal Attacks

Arguments in relationships should never become character assassinations. Stick strictly to the current issue. Avoid bringing up past mistakes or criticizing your partner’s personality. Focus on resolving the specific problem at hand.

Maintain respect. Treat your partner with kindness, even during disagreements. Your goal is collaborative problem-solving, not winning a battle.

5. Find Common Ground

Every argument contains potential for understanding. Look for areas of agreement, no matter how small. Acknowledge shared feelings or goals. Build a bridge of mutual understanding.

Collaborative approaches transform arguments in relationships from confrontations to conversations. Work together as a team. Seek solutions that satisfy both partners.

6. Seek Professional Help

Persistent communication challenges require professional intervention. A qualified therapist can provide:

  • Objective communication strategies
  • Tools for emotional regulation
  • Insights into underlying relationship dynamics
  • Personalized conflict resolution techniques

Professional guidance helps couples break destructive communication patterns. It provides skills for healthier, more understanding relationships.

Transforming Conflicts

Arguments in relationships are growth opportunities. They test and strengthen emotional bonds. By approaching conflicts with empathy, respect, and strategic communication, couples can turn challenges into moments of deeper connection.

Disagreements are normal. Respect is essential. Love is a continuous journey of understanding.

Click here to read more articles on relationships.

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