The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations promises to be a bittersweet affair, and for some players, it marks the end of their national team careers and the rise of rookies. For this edition of the tournament, Sports Brief spotlights five players who could compete in the final edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. Former Leicester City striker Ahmed Moussa will lead the young 'Super Eagles' for the second time. Moussa's selection was controversial and he even announced his withdrawal from international competition, so this could be his farewell fight.
His experience is crucial for Nigeria. Ghana national team captain Andre Ayo is another player to keep an eye on. The former West Ham United midfielder could set two new records in this tournament as he is likely to feature at the final Africa Cup of Nations, while a new generation of players is also on the rise. Algerian goalkeeper Les Mbolhi, winner of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, is nearing the end of his career and could say goodbye to the game in Abidjan.
The 37-year-old Mborsi's appearances in this game may be dwindling. Ivory Coast's Bhadra Ali Sangaré is a goalkeeper who currently plays for Sekoucuone United and has played in two Africa Cup of Nations and could be in his final edition on his home soil. For the 37-year-old, this could be the perfect curtain call on his international career. Moroccan defender Younis Abdulhamid is the captain of Remus Sporting Club and could also be his last appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations. The 36-year-old was out in 2021 and could contribute his experience to Morocco once again. With the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, these players will be trying to make their mark on this high-profile competition, with some of them likely saying goodbye to their international careers while others are starting to make their mark.