An unforgettable second day of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Trophy Diaspora Tour in Paris

Paris hosted a memorable second day of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Trophy Diaspora on Thursday, 04 December.

Held at the vibrant Yoyo venue inside the Palais de Tokyo, the event drew hundreds of fans, artists, journalists, and former African football legends.

Following an eventful opening night filled with African football legend reunions and vibrant diaspora energy, the second day confirmed the deep connection Parisian audiences have with the AFCON, which has become a cultural institution far beyond the pitch.

The day’s highlight was the richness of exchanges during two major panel discussions featuring prominent figures.

The first panel reunited two well-known African football figures.

Momo Sissoko, former Mali international and PSG academy product who starred for Valencia, Liverpool, and Juventus, joined Sébastien Bassong, former Cameroon defender who played in the Premier League with Newcastle and Tottenham.

Together, they revisited their Africa Cup of Nations memories, describing moments when the entire continent pauses to watch their nations compete.

Sissoko described the tournament as a sensory experience: “The AFCON is the smell of the earth, the heat, the chants, the pride of a people.”

Bassong called it “a school of character, where the true strength of African football is measured.” 

Yet, it was the emotional aspect that resonated most.

“AFCON holds a huge place in my heart. Nothing compares to stepping on the field representing your country,” said Sissoko. Bassong agreed, emphasizing the unique bond between player and nation: “It’s a responsibility but above all an honor. You carry the history and hope of millions.”

The second discussion explored the vital relationship between football and music—two powerful expressions that resonate across Africa and its diasporas.

French rapper Guy2bezbar and Moroccan superstar ElGrandeToto shared their perspectives on how the AFCON shaped their lives as fans and later as artists.

Guy2bezbar recalled, “Algeria’s victory in 2019 was historic. The diaspora united as one.”

ElGrandeToto reflected on the 2004 CAN final, a defining childhood memory: “My whole family was behind the team. It’s unforgettable.”

When asked about their favourites for AFCON 2025, ElGrandeToto pointed to Morocco and Senegal, while Guy2bezbar backed DR Congo—a heartfelt choice inspired by a passionate diaspora and a team capable of surprises.

The evening culminated in a thrilling live performance as Guy2bezbar and ElGrandeToto took the stage, igniting the crowd with energy and connection.

The highlight came when ElGrandeToto, mid-set, called Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi live on stage. The PSG defender greeted fans warmly and ended with a rousing “Dima Maghrib!”—“Always Morocco!” - sparking thunderous applause and reinforcing the strong bond between the Moroccan diaspora and their national team.