In June 2010, Africa will host football's next World Cup, the most significant global sporting spectacle ever to take place on the continent.

South Africa's successful bid was unsurprising - the sport thrives in Africa, and is vitally important, just as African footballers have become increasingly important in football at the highest levels. this fascinating book traces the development of the sport in Africa, finding out what makes African football unique and examining how the game fits into the social and political life of the continent. Drawing on a wide range of sources, and utilising extensive experience, having lived in four football-obsessed places - Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Egypt and South Africa - and having visited a further 24 African states, Ian Hawkey has produced a remarkable book: the definitive account of football and a continent.