Africa Cup of Nations: What to Look Out For

The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a biannual football tournament that is held in Africa. Initially, the competition comprised of 16 teams, however, they were increased to 24 teams in the 2017 AFCON edition. Egypt won the bid to host the 2019 AFCON tournament. It will take place from June 21 to July 19. Amateur punters can check out a 22bet bonus Nigeria review for recent stats and news about different teams. Here are six top players you should look out for in the 2019 AFCON.

1.     Nicolas Pepe

Nicolas is a key player for the Ivorian team. Recent reports indicate that he might sign with a prominent European club next season. Currently, Nicolas is a winger in Lille FC. His skills might help Ivory Coast reach this year’s AFCON final match.

2.     Hakim Ziyech

Hakim plays for Ajax FC. He played several goals for his club in the last Champions League season thus helping them reach the semi-finals. Hakim scored 16 goals and made 13 assists during the last Eredivisie season. He might score vital goals for Morocco.

3.     Henry Onyekuru

Henry is a winger for Everton FC. He has numerous international caps. Nevertheless, the Everton players spent the last two Premier League seasons on loan. He scored 19 goals for Anderlecht and 31 goals for Galatasaray. Henry likes cutting in the pitch to confuse his opponents.

4.     Mohamed Salah

Mohamed won the last two African Footballer of the Year awards. He helped Liverpool FC win the 2019 Champions League title. Mohamed is expected to play a vital role in Egypt’s progress in the 2019 AFCON. He is pacy, unpredictable and an excellent finisher.

5.     Sadio Mane

Sadio is a key player for Liverpool FC. He had a remarkable performance in the 2018/2019 EPL season. Sadio partnered with Salah to help his European club excel in EPL and in the Champions League. However, both players might face each other in later stages of the 2019 AFCON tournament.

6.     Ahmed Musa

Ahmed participates in the Saudi Arabian league. He is a talented forward who scored two exceptional goals in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Ahmed also scored two goals in the 2014 Brazil World Cup. He will help his Nigerian side reach the last 16 stage.

The 2019 AFCON tournament will take place from June to July. It will feature 24 teams including Egypt, Cameroon, Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. Some national football teams. Egypt lost 2-1 to Cameroon in the 2017 AFCON. However, the host nation is optimistic that they will win this year’s tournament. Mohamed Salah is determined to help his team win the AFCON title.