4 African stars playing in their last AFCON tournament

Andre Ayew and his brother Jordan are amongst the Ghanaians outside. (Shutterstock)

4 African stars playing in their last AFCON tournament

Ayoola Kelechi 23:53 - 15.01.2024

The 2023 AFCON could spell the last hurrah for these greats of the African game

The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a prestigious football tournament that has seen the rise of new talents and the solidification of legacies by legendary players. 

Notable figures like Egypt’s Hassan brothers, Stephen Keshi with Nigeria's Class of ’94, and the dynasties of Samuel Eto’o and Rigobert Song have left their mark. 

In recent times, stars like Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly have also etched their names in history by winning the tournament for their countries.

As some players aim to avoid the label of "unfulfilled talent," we look at five continental stars who may be in their last chance to achieve glory in this tournament.

William Troost-Ekong

Born in the Netherlands, Ekong has been a key defender for Nigeria. Despite his leadership qualities, he hasn't yet led the Super Eagles to continental success.

Super Eagles' vice captain William Troost-Ekong | Imago
Super Eagles' vice captain William Troost-Ekong | Imago

Now 30 years old and playing for PAOK Thessaloniki, Ekong, with 65 caps for Nigeria, faces a crucial moment in his career. His performance in Ivory Coast could be pivotal for his future with the national team.

Nicolas Pepe

The Ivorian forward, a former record signing for Arsenal, has been included in the Ivory Coast squad, much to the surprise of many. At 28, Pepe, who plays for Trabzonspor, is under pressure to perform on home soil.

Ivory Coast's midfielder Franck Kessie (2nd R) celebrates with Ivory Coast's midfielder Ibrahim Sangare (R) and Ivory Coast's forward Nicolas Pepe (2nd L) after scoring his team's first goal during the 2021 AFCON | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Ivory Coast's midfielder Franck Kessie (2nd R) celebrates with Ivory Coast's midfielder Ibrahim Sangare (R) and Ivory Coast's forward Nicolas Pepe (2nd L) after scoring his team's first goal during the 2021 AFCON | Photo Credit: Getty Images

His task is to either support players like Sebastian Haller or take the lead himself, with his national team future potentially at stake.

Hakim Ziyech

The Moroccan winger was a key player in the national team's historic semi-final run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Hakim Ziyech of Morocco | Credit: IMAGO
Hakim Ziyech of Morocco | Credit: IMAGO

Despite his current challenges at Galatasaray, Ziyech remains a crucial figure for Morocco. At 30 years old, he faces the challenge of leading his team to their first AFCON victory since 1976.

The Ayew brothers

Andre and Jordan Ayew, aged 34 and 31 respectively, carry the legacy of the Abedi Pele family in Ghanaian football. They have faced criticism but remain dedicated to their national team.

The Ayew brothers Jordan and Andre | Imago
The Ayew brothers Jordan and Andre | Imago

Andre Ayew, participating in his eighth AFCON, and Jordan, in his sixth, face a crucial moment. This tournament might be their final opportunity to win silverware for Ghana before considering international retirement.

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