The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has witnessed several memorable performances from Chelsea FC stars over the years. As the next edition of the tournament approaches, it’s worth revisiting the rich history of Chelsea’s African players conquering the continental stage with panache and leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Didier Drogba – Chelsea’s Icon Stamping His Authority
No narration of Chelsea’s AFCON connection is complete without the mention of the legendary Didier Drogba. The striker from Ivory Coast was a dominant force in African football during his prime years at Chelsea. His physicality, aerial prowess and eye for goal made him an unstoppable force. Although his national team has suffered a shocking defeat by Equatorial Guinea on this AFCON the bettors on bet9ja old mobile for iphone still believe in them and download the app through the guide at the link.
Drogba came agonizingly close to winning AFCON 2006 when Ivory Coast reached the final only to lose on penalties against Egypt. The talismanic forward finished as the tournament’s top scorer, underlining his credentials as one of the best strikers in African football history. His heroics almost helped Ivory Coast clinch the AFCON trophy in 2012 as well, but another narrow loss in the finals prevented Drogba from completing his international legacy with Zambia achieving their maiden prize. Nonetheless, his performances cemented his status as an African legend.
The Midfield Marshals Calling the Shots
While Drogba relished an attacking role, Chelsea’s African midfielders have also left an indelible mark on AFCON over the years. John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien formed a formidable partnership in central midfield for Nigeria and Ghana respectively.
Mikel played an integral role in Nigeria’s third AFCON triumph in 2013. His assured displays in midfield provided balance and solidity as the Super Eagles overcame star-studded sides like Ivory Coast and Mali on their way to glory. Essien also enjoyed success in 2008 when Ghana finished third. His box-to-box dynamism and tough tackling were instrumental for the Black Stars as they beat tournament favorites Ivory Coast and Nigeria before narrowly losing to Cameroon in the semifinals.
Modern Maestros Weaving their Magic
In recent times, the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane may have stolen the limelight, but Chelsea’s African talents have continued to shine in AFCON. Hakim Ziyech has been a creative fulcrum for Morocco, helping them reach the quarter-finals in 2021 with his incisive passing and clinical finishing. His set-piece deliveries and long-range strikes have been a constant threat for opponents.
Edouard Mendy has established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in African football. He played a key role in Senegal’s trophy run in 2021. His agile shot-stopping and confident command of the area have been invaluable for the Lions of Teranga. Mendy’s stellar form helped the goalkeeper make a decisive shot stop in the final and become a Man of the Tournament.
The Legacy Lives On
As we look ahead to AFCON 2023, Chelsea fans can be assured they will have plenty of on-field heroes to cheer for, like Senegalese Nicolas Jackson, set to conquer group C with his national team. The club’s legacy at the tournament burns bright thanks to the achievements of legends like Drogba as well as today’s scintillating stars.
With promising young talents also coming through the ranks at Chelsea, the future looks equally bright. The latest generation of players seems poised to continue the tradition of excellence in Africa’s showpiece event. The boys in blue are set to conquer AFCON for years to come!