Ali Yahia, Ramy Boujlil, Mohamed Gamal Emerge Winners as Free 'N' Tricks End in Cairo

• Ali Yahia has won the Freestyle Connect Africa 2023, held in Cairo
• The skillful Algerian edged Ramy Boujlil of Morocco and Egypt's Mohamed Gamal to the ultimate prize
• The event featured 14 elite athletes from across the continent

Algeria's Ali Yahia has emerged winner of the Freestyle Connect Africa 2023, held in Cairo, having showcased sensational skills on Friday, November 17, going home with a grand prize of $3000.

Ramy Boujlil of Morocco went home with $2000 for finishing second while Egypt's Mohamed Gamal claimed the third spot taking home $1000.

The winners also went home with DLK Clothing Signature's merchandise.

It was gathered that the competition was part of the broader Intra Africa Trade Fair (IATF2023), championed by AFREXIMBANK, in collaboration with the African Union and AFCFTA which was held from November 9 to 15, with the theme, 'One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World'.

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Boxing

The theme emphasizes the importance of African unity and the power of its rich cultural heritage in forging a brighter future.

It featured 14 elite athletes from across the continent, judged by three international freestyle legends, Joel Asare (former Ghanaian Champion), Ashley Mkhize (former South African Champion), and Yousef Ayman' Yorok' (former Egyptian Champion).

The event, which was held at the Al Manara International Conference Centre, was a cultural extravaganza and a testament to Africa's rich heritage and unyielding spirit.

Guinness World Record-holding freestyler Iya Traore from Guinea/Paris, delivered a breathtaking performance.

Similarly, Raquel Benetti, the Brazilian freestyle virtuoso and Guinness World Record holder captivated the crowd with her mesmerizing skills. The atmosphere was electrified by the beats of celebrity DJ Fat Sam, setting the tone for a high-energy contest.

Valentine Ozigbo, the Chairman of Feet' N' Tricks and a multiple-award-winning global CEO, expressed his enthusiasm in his welcome address, stating, "The exceptional skill and genuine passion exhibited today are truly unmatched.

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Football

"These freestylers transcend the realms of mere athleticism; they are artists and creators in their own right, communicating through a universal language that blends creativity with the ethos of sportsmanship.

"This event is not just a competition; it's a celebration of African unity and talent. We are proud to collaborate with AFREXIMBANK and WFFA, bringing together the best of African freestyle football."

Daniel Wood, the Co-Founder and Head of Partnerships at the WFFA, echoed these sentiments: "The WFFA deeply acknowledges Africa's crucial role as the epicentre for the burgeoning growth of freestyle football.

"As a confirmation of this narrative and to celebrate Africa's contribution to this dynamic sport, we are proud to announce that Nairobi, Kenya, will be hosting the prestigious World Football Freestyle Championship on Nov 25, 2023. Ali Yahia who emerged champion today is already billed to represent Africa at the World Championship."

Adaeze Anyaoku, the director of Events at AFREXIMBANK, the event's main sponsor, highlighted the bank's mission: "Our support for Freestyle Connect Africa aligns with our goal of fostering pan-African unity. Sports and culture are powerful tools for bringing people together, and we're proud to be part of this incredible event. We are proud to partner with Feet' N' Tricks to bring this wonderful sport to IATF2023."

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Freestyler Nutmegs Kevin de Bruyne

Earlier, Sports Brief reported about a video on social media where a professional freestyler was spotted nutmegging Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne in less than 30 seconds.

The incident happened when De Bruyne returned to his country Belgium for the KDB Cup tournament.

As part of the event, De Bruyne did an activity with freestyler and street panna player Martijn Debbaut but probably ended up regretting it.