Story perspectives

Eritrean Footballers Go Missing After AFCON Qualifying Win

4/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Seven Eritrean footballers went missing after Eritrea's AFCON qualifying win over Eswatini.
Hesham Yakan, head coach of Eritrea's national team, said most missing players were substitutes seeking better economic opportunities abroad.
The incident follows Eritrea's return to AFCON qualifiers for the first time since 2008, after travel was restricted due to defections.
The disappearance occurred after the second leg on March 31, contributing to a 4-1 aggregate victory.

1 of 1

Story summary

Seven Eritrean footballers went missing after Eritrea's AFCON qualifying win over Eswatini.
Hesham Yakan, head coach of Eritrea's national team, said most missing players were substitutes seeking better economic opportunities abroad.
The incident follows Eritrea's return to AFCON qualifiers for the first time since 2008, after travel was restricted due to defections.
The disappearance occurred after the second leg on March 31, contributing to a 4-1 aggregate victory.