Summary
Eritrea is set to play against Eswatini in a qualifying match for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, ending 18 years of absence from the tournament. The match will take place in Morocco because Eritrea does not have a suitable stadium. Eritrea's absence has been linked to political reasons and players seeking asylum.
Key Facts
- Eritrea is competing in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers for the first time since 2008.
- The match against Eswatini will occur in the Moroccan city of Meknes due to Eritrea's lack of an international-standard venue.
- Eritrean players have reportedly sought asylum during international matches, possibly due to political issues and long military service in their home country.
- President Isaias Afwerki has led Eritrea since its independence in 1993, and his government is described as repressive by human rights groups.
- Eritrea's football federation president announced the team's return to international play after discussions with the government.
- A new coach, Hesham Yakan, was appointed to lead the team.
- Eritrea's squad includes players from several countries, including Australia, Egypt, and England.
- Eswatini has never qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, and their previous matches against Eritrea ended without goals.
