- Commentators play a crucial role in how we watch and experience football.
- With AFCON and other domestic competitions, it has been the same.
- As the world gears up for AFCON, let's check out who the best AFCON Commentators are.
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AFCON Commentators: Best African Football Presenters in 2025
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Summary
More than just goals and limelight, the Africa Cup of Nations is a competition that is featured as a football festival thanks to the passion and raw emotions, and no one tells the story better than the AFCON commentators. From the spine-chilling description of last-minute goals to breaking down the match-winning tactics, the African football commentators influence how the world sees and understands the prestigious competition of Africa.
Over the years, there have been some names that have particularly resonated among the fans through their voice and unmatched delivery. From Carol Tshabalala to Mark Gleeson, let's take a look at the top 5 names of the AFCON commentary panel.
Top 5 Best AFCON Commentators
Here are the top 5 AFCON commentators who are known for their delivery and versatility on the mic:
| Name | Age | Country | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Gleeson | 61 | South Africa | AFCON, CAF Champions League |
| Robert Marawa | 52 | South Africa | CAF Champions League |
| George Addo Jnr | - | Ghana | AFCON, CAF Champions League |
| Mike Okinyi | - | Kenya | AFCON, World Cup Qualifiers, CAF Finals |
| Carol Tshabalala | 44 | South Africa | AFCON Qualifiers, CAF Champions League coverage |
5. Carol Tshabalala- South Africa

One of the top voices among the AFCON commentators, Carol Tshabalala, is known for her contributions to AFCON in addition to other top-tier competitions. From South Africa, the commentator and journalist is 44 years old as of 2025. Over the years, she has broken barriers with her work as a versatile presenter. It is safe to say that Carol has raised the standards for female presenters while also paving the way for future generations.
While the 44-year-old is famously known as a presenter, she has a lot of contributions to the AFCON commentary panel as well. From her storytelling to tactical analysis, she keeps on representing African football on worldwide platforms with her skill, flair, and football knowledge. Globally, she is particularly known for her pioneering role for women in the African footballing landscape.
4. Mike Okinyi- Kenya

While famously known as a journalist, Mike Okinyi is also a prominent name among the best African football commentators. As East Africa continues to grow within football in the continent, Mike Okinyi rises as one of the most familiar voices in the region. His energetic commentary delivery style is unmatched by any other voice in AFCON right now.
Given how engaging his commentary is, many believe that he is perfectly suited for the AFCON audiences. The commentator blends storytelling into live matches, which particularly resonates with the fans who tune into all football matches in Africa. In addition to his contributions as one of the best AFCON commentators, Mike is also respected among the journalists of the African footballing landscape.
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3. George Addo Jnr- Ghana

Speaking of the best AFCON commentators, George Addo Jnr is one of the newest names in the conversation. Following his contributions in the CAF Champions League, he has been appointed as the lead commentator for the Africa Cup of Nations by an official broadcast rights holder.
However, this is not something new for the commentator, as he had the same role back in the 2023 AFCON, which was held in the Ivory Coast. He had the chance to sit with Didier Drogba, Adebayor, and other football legends during the AFCON campaign 2 years ago.
Previously, the former JoySports editor has also covered other AFCON tournaments, three FIFA World Cups, and two UEFA European Championships, along with many Ghana Premier League campaigns. This year, he will commentate side by side with Atsrim Sitsofe Philip.
2. Robert Marawa- South Africa

Currently working at Marawa Sports Worldwide, Robert Marawa is one of the marquee sports journalists in the African footballing landscape. Currently 52 years old, he attended Hilton College and the University of the Witwatersrand.
Robert began his career as a host of the Laduma soccer show that was aired way back in 1996. Together with Azania Mosaka, he hosted the 12th ceremony of Metro FM Music Awards back in 2013. Since then, Robert has voiced many live games and influenced the way the football community watches and enjoys football in Africa.
1. Mark Gleeson- South Africa

At the top of the list of AFCON commentators, we have Mark Gleeson. One of the respected names in the AFCON Commentary Panel, his name is synonymous with African Football journalism and commentary. Currently, 61 years old, the South African has covered AFCON tournaments, CAF competitions, and International football over his career.
His live match commentary and tactical breakdown of games are particularly the elements that set him apart from the rest. While new names in African Football commentary make their introductions, Mark's voice is still trusted by global broadcasters who are looking for unmatched and authentic African football expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best AFCON commentator as of 2025?
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Who is the best AFCON commentator as of 2025?
Mark Gleeson is the best AFCON commentator as of 2025.
Who is the best female AFCON commentator as of 2025?
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Who is the best female AFCON commentator as of 2025?
Carol Tshabalala is the best female AFCON commentator as of 2025.
How old is Carol Tshabalala?
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How old is Carol Tshabalala?
Carol Tshabalala is 44 years old, as of 2025.
How old is Mark Gleeson?
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How old is Mark Gleeson?
Mark Gleeson is 61 years old as of 2025.
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