By HAN News Desk
RABAT — Several of Africa’s biggest football stars will miss this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), dealing a blow to fans ahead of the continent’s flagship football tournament, which kicks off on Sunday.
High-profile absences include players sidelined by injury, club commitments, or national team non-selection. Some star players were ruled out after failing to recover from long-term injuries, while others were left out following coaching changes or tactical decisions.
Football analysts say the absence of top names could reshape the tournament, opening opportunities for younger players and emerging teams to make a strong impact. Coaches across the continent have emphasized squad depth and teamwork rather than reliance on individual stars.
Despite the absences, AFCON is still expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide, with fans anticipating competitive matches and potential surprises.
