By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Excitement is building across the Bronx as Liberia and The Gambia prepare to clash in the final of the African Nations Tournament on Saturday at Macombs Dam Park in New York City, with community leaders, football enthusiasts, and top borough officials expected to attend the highly anticipated showdown.
The tournament, organized by the African Advisory Council Bronx Chapter, has grown into one of the most vibrant diaspora sporting events in the city, using football as a platform to unite Africans abroad while steering young people away from crime and negative influences.
Speaking exclusively to *Jersey Number 12* on Thursday, African Advisory Council Bronx Chapter President Sodiki Donzo said the competition was designed not only to celebrate African culture through sports, but also to create opportunities and direction for African youth living in the diaspora.
“When our youths are fully engaged in one activity or another, it prevents them from doing things contrary to the law,” Donzo said.
“This is one of the reasons why the African Advisory Council put together different activities for our people in other areas of life apart from sports, to keep them busy and add value to their lives.”
Donzo revealed that the organization is also collaborating closely with New York City FC to help identify talented players emerging from the tournament, with the possibility of securing professional opportunities for standout performers.
According to him, some participants could also earn opportunities to train with academy structures connected to the club until they are considered ready to progress further in their football development.
“Participating in diaspora-organized tournaments gives African youth valuable exposure and visibility to international scouts and coaches, helps them develop their skills through higher-level competition, builds important networks with players and sports organizations abroad,” Donzo added.
“It also offers cultural exchange and learning of different playing styles, opens doors to opportunities such as scholarships, academies, and professional contracts, and strengthens their confidence through experience in more competitive environments.”
The final is expected to attract a large crowd at Macombs Dam Park, with the President of the Bronx Borough, Vanessa L. Gibson, alongside several top borough officials, scheduled to grace the occasion.
Organizers believe Saturday’s final will serve as more than just a football match, describing it as a celebration of African unity, youth empowerment, and community development in New York City.
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