Tanzanian clubs Simba and Yanga are among the teams that have significantly contributed top talent to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
As the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) reaches its zenith it is not just the national teams that are in the limelight but also the African clubs pivotal in shaping the tournament's narrative.
This year's edition, marked by underdog triumphs and heavyweight exits, saw clubs from across the continent contributing significantly to their national teams' campaigns.
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In this article, Pulse Sports explores the top eight African clubs whose players are poised to leave an indelible mark on AFCON 2023, despite the elimination of many of their respective nations.
Atlético Petróleos de Luanda
Atlético Petróleos de Luanda, hailing from Angola's top-tier Girabola league, made a substantial contribution with five players.
Eddie Afonso, To Carneiro, and Kinito were among the notable names representing Angola, a nation that surged unexpectedly into the quarterfinals.
Their participation, however, impacted the club's domestic campaign, as they trailed behind Kabuscorp in the league.
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FC Nouadhibou
Mauritania's FC Nouadhibou, a dominant force in their local league, lost five key players to the tournament.
Players like Nouh Mohamed El Abd and Sidi Ahmed Mohamed El Abd showcased their talents on a grand stage.
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Despite Mauritania's exit in the Round of 16, the club's representation at AFCON was a testament to its growing stature.
Simba Sports Club
Simba Sports Club, a prominent team in Tanzania's Premier League, had six players in the tournament.
Aishi Manula, Mzamiru Yassin, and Kibu Denis played pivotal roles for Tanzania, a nation that saw an early exit in the group stages.
Yanga
Another Tanzanian club, Young Africans Sports Club, had seven players in the tournament.
While Tanzania bowed out early, players like Stephane Aziz Ki of Burkina Faso and Djigui Diarra of Mali shone in their respective national teams, reaching the quarterfinals.
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Orlando Pirates
Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa's premier clubs, has seven players at AFCON.
Their absence is being felt in the South African Premier Division, as players like Nkosinathi Sibisi and Thabang Monare are representing Bafana Bafana.
Ghana's Richard Ofori and Namibia's Deon Kavendji also hailed from this club.
Pyramids
Egypt's Pyramids Football Club had a staggering nine players in the tournament.
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Despite Egypt's shock exit in the Round of 16, players like Ahmed El Shenawy and Ali Gabr showcased their skills, underlining the club's growing influence in Egyptian football.
Al Ahly
Egypt's Al Ahly Sporting Club was perhaps the most impacted, with 10 players participating in the tournament.
Notable players like Ali Maaloul of Tunisia and Percy Tau of South Africa represented their countries, while the club managed its schedule without these key players.
Mamelodi Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns, another South African giant, is without 11 of their players. The club's contribution was significant, with most players representing South Africa, which has made it to the semifinals.
Peter Shalulile's participation with Namibia, albeit short-lived, was also noteworthy.
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