Equatorial Guinea Has A New Heroine

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea – This African nation is emerging into a world-class destination for soccer matches. Yesterday’s Women’s Cup of African Nations (CAN) 2012 game was held at the New Malabo Stadium, which is the second largest stadium in Equatorial Guinea. The stadium is located at the foot of a lush tropical mountainside, with the sea only a couple of kilometers away.

The national soccer team for Equatorial Guinea showed determination and grace during a convincing 6-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Equatorial Guinea Girls, dubbed by their fans in America play Senegal for the next game. Captain Ayonman scored three goals and showed her best game against the Congolese team.

After the match, at a press conference, the coach of the Equatorial Guinea Girls, Esteban Becker acknowledged the great game played by his team and the captain, Ayonman. Coach Becker said “he has twenty-one high-quality players, and that for the upcoming match against Senegal, he might reserve some players who are slightly injured”.

“With Ayonman performance and leadership, she’s definitely a role model for girls. She can effectively advocate for girls to achieve excellence on and off the field”, said Victor Mooney of the New York based – South African Arts International, ltd.

Equatorial Guinea government officials say that education is essential to developing the human capital the nation needs to manage its resources and transform its economy. The government of Equatorial Guinea has made education a top priority of the Horizon 2020 development plan, which was set in motion by President Obiang to move the country toward a sustainable and emergent economy. The West African nation was the first nation in Africa to establish a cabinet ministry devoted to women’s affairs.

Additional reporting from Equatorial Guinea’s Press and Information Office.
Photo: Equatorial Guinea Girls, Captain, Ayonman dribbles past Bosimba during yesterday’s win.