Where to catch the Afcon action

Monday's disappointing result seems to augur an Africa Cup of Nations gilded with hope but ultimately disappointing.

However, on rare occasions, the stars line up to shower a beam of good fortune on the lucky few who manage to avoid hangovers on nights that championships are won. Let us keep kicking and watch the games at these Johannesburg favourites:

Paddy's Sports Café

If AC/DC's Brian Johnson were a pub he would look, feel and sound like Paddy's. A stone's throw from the MultiChoice complex in Randburg, this sports bar has big screens, an oversized menu and a clientele that ranges from harmless to mildly disreputable. All of this is sprinkled among the pool tables and bathed in bad lighting. Who could ask for more?

Paddy's Sports Café, corner Bram Fischer Drive and Hunter Street, Ferndale, 011-781-6224

Hooters

If you're looking for a slightly more glamorous sports bar experience manned by buxom beauties, Hooters is likely to be the right fit for you. Their American-style pub fare ensures that any pre-game rumblings are satisfactorily dealt with and dieting guilt is washed away by their one-litre beer mugs, also known as Big Daddies. A glut of HD televisions means you won't miss any action.

Hooters is countrywide,www.hooterssouthafrica.com

The Jolly Roger and Jolly Cool

The Jolly Roger is known for sardine-ing its patrons into small spaces for extended periods of time . It is simultaneously fun and cramped. What the bar lacks in television presence is made up for in a wide selection of beers and pizzas. Across the street, Jolly Cool features a giant projection screen for anyone wishing to broaden their sporting horizons.

The Jolly Roger and Jolly Cool, 4th Avenue, Parkhurst. JR 011-442-3954 JC 011-327-5883

The Keg

Any bar bearing the moniker "Keg and (insert relevant noun)" is a magnet area for sports fanatics. Its fuss-free atmosphere is perfect for dreams of glory, dashed hopes and anguished screams.

The Keg is countrywide.www.atthekeg.co.za