The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) represents football’s ultimate prize on the continent, defining legacies and crowning champions. Egypt leads with seven titles, followed by Cameroon (5), Ghana (4), and Nigeria (3). As AFCON 2025 approaches in Morocco (December 2025-January 2026), attention turns to legendary players who never lifted the trophy.
Mohamed Salah’s AFCON Heartbreak
At 33, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah remains AFCON-less despite two finals appearances. Egypt last won in 2010, before his international prime. Qualification failures delayed his 2017 debut, where Cameroon defeated Egypt. In 2021’s final against Senegal, penalties ended before Salah’s turn. Injured during AFCON 2023, he watched Egypt’s early exit. The 2025 edition may be his final chance.
Didier Drogba’s Penalty Agony
Ivory Coast’s Didier Drogba suffered repeated AFCON final frustration. He captained in 2006 and 2012 finals. Both ended in penalty shootout defeats. He missed crucial kicks in both matches. Ivory Coast claimed the title in 2015, months after Drogba retired. AFCON glory always eluded him.
George Weah’s Limited Opportunities
Africa’s sole Ballon d’Or winner (1995) faced challenges with Liberia. The nation qualified only twice during Weah’s career (1996, 2002). They never advanced beyond group stages. Weah scored just one AFCON goal. He later served as Liberia’s president (2018-2024).
Nwankwo Kanu’s Near Miss
Despite Olympic gold and club success, Nwankwo Kanu missed AFCON glory. Nigeria’s 2000 home final against Cameroon went to penalties. Kanu missed his kick in the decisive shootout. Nigeria reached four semi-finals during his career. He retired with silver and bronze medals only.
Michael Essien’s Injury Woes
Ghana’s midfield powerhouse Michael Essien mirrored Chelsea success internationally. Injuries hampered his AFCON journey. He missed the 2006 tournament entirely. In 2010, injury struck mid-tournament before Ghana’s final loss to Egypt. Persistent fitness issues curtailed his international career.
These legends’ stories remind us football greatness transcends trophies. Their impact and legacy endure beyond AFCON medals.
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