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Didier Drogba: An African Legend Under the Spotlight
Published: February 22, 2013
I never imagined, back in the Autumn of 2004, that this young forward—the emerging figurehead of Roman Abramovich’s Chelsea revolution—would go on to be revered across the continent in such elevated terms. In truth, I was dubious about this broad, bustling striker who seemed to hit the deck at every opportunity; despite the odd flash of brilliance, there was too much of the theatrical, the pleading, the petulance.
He was, famously, a "slow-starter," and whilst many would-be stars are feted from their mid-teens, Drogba’s rise was far less spectacular. At 23, playing on the Cotes d’Armor with En Avant Guingamp, he was languishing on the periphery of the team, still struggling to find his feet in the French leagues.
However, slowly and surely the towering forward began to express himself as a powerhouse forward. Before long it was evident that Drogba had the lot. Capable of outmuscling even the strongest of centre-backs, capable of leaping higher than the tallest, and, in bursts, potent enough to outmanoeuvre and outthink the wiliest of defenders.
It became apparent that Chelsea had an absolute gem on their hands.
It was on the big occasion where the Ivorian frontman excelled, and it was on the higher stage where the affection that existed for him among the Chelsea faithful became a full-blown love affair.
Manchester United were slain in the 2007 FA Cup Final thanks to Drogba winner, so too Portsmouth three years later, and Liverpool in last summer’s showpiece. Against Everton in 2009, Louis Saha’s opener was cancelled out by the Ivorian, before Frank Lampard’s winner sealed the cup for the Pensioners.
It was against Bayern Munich in last year’s Champions League final that Drogba’s array of talents, and penchant for the highest billing, saw the Blues secure Europe’s premier trophy, becoming the first London club...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football
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