Korhogo, the “City of Poro,” is set to write a new chapter in African football history after serving as a host city for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. From December 6 to 14, 2025, the northern Ivorian city will welcome the 2nd African Nations Cup of Petits Poteaux, an event dedicated to fraternity, entertainment, and local development.
A total of 16 nations are expected to compete on Ivorian soil: Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Benin, Cameroon, DR Congo, Senegal, Gabon, Niger, Congo, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and, for the first time, Angola.
“The arrival of the Angolan team, widely known for their spectacular videos combining dribbling and freestyle skills, promises an incredible show — without diminishing the level of other teams,” said Me Dalié Tanguy, Vice President in charge of Institutional Relations and Coordination of Federal Activities.
The group stage draw is scheduled for early November 2025.
A Symbolic and Strategic Choice
The selection of Korhogo as host city is no coincidence. According to Me Dalié, the city is “one of the strongholds of Petits Poteaux football, with more than thirty tournaments organized every year.” Beyond its passionate fan base, a dedicated stadium is currently under construction, demonstrating the city’s commitment to the sport.
“Honoring Korhogo means recognizing a dynamic, creative, and athletic youth,” he added.
The event’s impact is expected to go beyond sports. “Korhogo is also a tourist city. Hosting sixteen nations will showcase its culture and craftsmanship while boosting the local economy,” emphasized Me Dalié.
From Ivorian Streets to the African Stage
Born in the popular neighborhoods of Côte d’Ivoire, Petits Poteaux football has grown into a recognized sport in its own right.
“It’s a typically Ivorian discipline, just as traditional wrestling is for our Senegalese brothers. What began as a street game has been professionalized thanks to the Ivorian Federation of Petits Poteaux Football (FIFPP) and its president, Me Fofana Inza,” explained Me Dalié.
Founded on November 18, 2018, the FIFPP has helped structure and standardize the discipline. The game is played between two teams of six players on a small pitch, with goals measuring one meter by 1.25 meters and a size 3 ball. While each country adds its own flair, “the rules remain the same everywhere,” he noted.
A Confederation with Continental Ambition
Established on November 18, 2021, the African Confederation of Petits Poteaux (CAPP) already counts 18 member countries. Its first edition, held the same year, crowned Niger as champion in front of ten ambassadors who came to support their teams.
“In 2025, we aim to confirm that this African Nations Cup has become an institutionalized event built to last. Our long-term vision is clear: to move toward a World Cup of Petits Poteaux Football,” declared Me Dalié Tanguy with confidence.
