CAF Unveils Marhaba, 2015 AFCON Official Ball

Posted by African Examiner African News, Latest Headlines, News Thursday, November 27th, 2014

Oyewale Oyelola

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the official match ball for 2015 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be hosted by Equatorial Guinea.

The official ball which was named Marhaba (hello) has a distinct gold and blue colouring and its features are similar to the 2014 World Cup and Champion League balls.

A joint statement by CAF and Adidas, indicated that the ball would be officially unveiled next Wednesday, December 3, 2014 during the draw of the final tournament at the Sipopo Convention Centre in Malabo.

The statement read in part: “It has a distinct gold and blue colouring, representing the contrasting landscapes of the continent, from the Sahara desert to the bright azure sky of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean.

“Like its counterparts in regional and international tournaments, Marhaba has gone through a thorough testing process to make sure that it is suited to the playing conditions during the tournament.

“The technology incorporated into the bladder and carcass of the ball is identical to the Brazuca (2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil) and the ever popular UEFA Champions League Official Match Ball.”

Next AFCON Football tournament is slated for late January 2015.