Nditi dreaming of a date with destiny at the Afcon

Forfar Athletic defender Roberto Nditi is about to embark on a footballing journey unlike any other. Just weeks ago, he was battling it out in Scotland's League Two with the aptly-named Loons.

 Now, he finds himself preparing for a date with destiny at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Ivory Coast, facing the mighty Morocco in Tanzania's opening match.

"It's crazy," admits the 23-year-old Basingstoke-born player, his voice a mixture of excitement and disbelief. "From Peterhead one Saturday to facing world-class Morocco the next. It's an opportunity I never thought would come, but here I am, representing my nation!"

Nditi's Tanzanian roots, inherited from his parents, have opened a door to a footballing adventure beyond his wildest dreams. He'll be joining forces with stars like Aston Villa veteran Mbwana Samatta, aiming to learn and elevate his game against some of the continent's finest talents.

"It's going to be a fabulous experience," Nditi beams. "Watching these guys, learning from them, taking bits of their game – it can only make me a better player when I return to Forfar."

The challenge ahead is daunting. Ranked 121st in the world, Tanzania face Morocco, a team boasting World Cup experience and a fearsome reputation. Yet, Nditi doesn't shy away from the challenge.

"We have a chance to make history," he declares. "We're underdogs, but we have nothing to lose. Even if we don't win, playing against Morocco will be an incredible experience."

Nditi's selection has brought joy not only to him and his family but also to his club back in Scotland. Despite the initial surprise, Forfar's management is fully behind their player's Afcon adventure.

"They're excited for me," Nditi says with gratitude. "They understand this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and they're behind me all the way."

As he prepares to leave Scottish shores for the African plains, Nditi carries the hopes and dreams of not just his family and club but of an entire nation.

The "crazy" journey from League Two to Afcon is about to begin, and Tanzania's Roberto Nditi, ready to face the Moroccan magic, is ready to write his own chapter in footballing history.