Good job organizers.

Though, I would like to highlight my disappointment with the Referee. He intentionally robbed my team off including cutting out game time to 50 mins so we would not be able to win when the game was 5-4.

Why cut game time when the rules says 30 mins each half ? This was the obvious one amongst others which included not listening to linesman call for offside.

My team were really dissatisfied and felt the referee had an agenda.

These issues should be looked into for next tournaments especially getting professional linesmen and unbiased referees and we would also even be very happy to pay more.

Regardless good job setting that all up with just 100 box. Impressive 🙏

I agree with this. I think the tournament can be a more spiced up with some elevated entertainment ( Music / BBQ ) etc… this event happens in the summer and we know how priceless summer is in Canada! I think registration fee can be more with more value to this tournament that is the only one with so many African countries together.

Good job guys! Keep it up.

Just add to this, I believe teams don't mind to pays more than the $100 registration fee to have these improvements.
- proper linesmen
- additional staff to get stuff to teams on time
- enough water , food per team 
- add some entertainment, music for e.g.
- i believe you guys are the only one tournament able to unite that many teams from Africa, and you have some years of doing/experience, this tournament should get better and bigger every year and draw fans attendance.

Good job guys

First, thank you for ACYSN and the organizers. It is never easy to plan and execute a tournament like this with limited resources and manpower. I was informed that ACYSN has been doing this for the past 7 years and growing each year. As you stated on your mission statement, you did bring many African brothers to Hamilton and the potential for the future is profound.   There are many positives that have already been listed, and I do agree that the venue was perfect. For the future, I would suggest for the organizers to think about inviting vendors to provide food, our beautiful African artifacts, and clothes for the visitors. We have to start somewhere... I would also suggest an opening ceremony at the beginning of the tournament and send the same message about what this tournament is all about …I have heard some inappropriate comments, threats,  gestures and action by some of the  players on the field...some of these players forgot our kids off the field watching the game with their parents…our volunteer armature referees did all they could and we all should thank them for stepping up knowing how intense these games become. We should and must have professional referees who are neutral and who could handle these games. Last but not least, these tournaments should include an exhibition game involving our young children and women so the tournament could create future players. Good luck finalist and make this tournament a fun event  and make the community proud…

Cheers

Congratulations to team Somali and DR Congo to make it on the finals. This is the rematch of the last year finals  🤔🤔 Somali vs Congo again

A big thanks to the organizers and the entire staff. I will also take this opportunity to thank ever team or country which participated in the tournament last Saturday.

Exactly what I wanted to say ! N also some of the teams didn’t receive their water on time ( I know I had to go to Walmart to buy our own when the organizers promised we would get water n so on .

Lastly please let’s have official refs n linesman’s next time ( I’ll even pay for it if I have to ) we would like a clean game with 2 linesman’s n a ref for each game !

Great Tournament ! Keep up the good work .

Positives - good field - fair refereeing- strong teams

Negatives - short games without extra time, which led to time wasting by a team ahead and therefore arguments - African time

The 8th Annual Hamilton African Cup of Nations Hamilton has come to an end, leaving behind a legacy of excitement and unity that perfectly captured the spirit of Africa. This year’s tournament was a vivid celebration of soccer, filled with passion, high emotions, and a sense of togetherness   that transcended borders.

From the opening match, the Cup showcased the vibrant energy and dedication of African soccer. Fans from various backgrounds gathered to witness a series of exhilarating games featuring an impressive array of teams: Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Somalia, Cameroon, Nigeria, Djibouti, Ghana, Benin, Botswana, Liberia, Republic of Congo, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each team brought their unique style and fervor to the pitch, adding to the tournament's rich tapestry of competition and camaraderie.

The climax of the tournament was nothing short of spectacular. The final featured a gripping showdown between Nigeria and Ghana. The match was intense and closely contested, with both teams demonstrating their skill and resilience. After a dramatic 1-1 draw, the game was decided by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

In a moment of sheer brilliance, Nigeria’s goalkeeper emerged as the hero, saving an incredible three penalty attempts. His performance was pivotal, allowing Nigeria’s players to convert all of their penalty kicks with precision. This flawless execution secured Nigeria’s victory and earned them the first-place title in a well-deserved triumph.

The tournament's success was made possible by the collective efforts of many dedicated individuals. A heartfelt thank you goes to the volunteers, coaches, officials, and organizers whose hard work and commitment ensured a smooth and memorable event. Their contributions were instrumental in creating an environment where the spirit of Africa and the love of soccer could shine brightly.

The Hamilton African Cup of Nations is more than just a soccer tournament; it embodies the core values of the organization behind it. One of its primary goals is to foster, develop, and promote the game of soccer and other sporting activities in Hamilton and the surrounding areas. This event exemplifies this commitment by bringing together diverse communities and celebrating the beautiful game with fervor and enthusiasm. Another crucial aim is to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of youth in the community. By providing a platform where players can showcase their talents and experience the joy of competition, the tournament contributes to their overall development and encourages a healthy, active lifestyle.

As the tournament comes to an end, the unity and joy we've shared serve as a profound reminder of soccer's extraordinary power to bring people together and elevate communities. The 8th Annual Hamilton African Cup of Nations will be celebrated as a brilliant testament to the enduring African spirit and the boundless, universal love for the game. The success of this event highlights the organization's dedication to promoting fraternity among diverse communities in Hamilton and beyond, reinforcing the belief that through soccer, we can bridge gaps and build lasting connections.