Eritrea’s national team secured a landmark achievement by qualifying for the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in nearly two decades. A decisive 2–1 away victory sealed a 4–1 aggregate win, marking a major milestone for the country’s football.
However, the celebration has been overshadowed by reports that several players did not return with the team. While part of the squad traveled back via South Africa, a number of players are believed to have remained behind, with only a limited group—mainly those based abroad—returning to Asmara.
Among those reportedly missing are goalkeeper Kubrom Solomon and winger Medhanie Redie, while team captain Ablelom Teklezghi is among the few confirmed to have returned. State media, which typically highlights such successes, has remained largely silent, and planned celebrations were reportedly canceled.
The incident reflects a recurring pattern involving Eritrean teams competing internationally. Over the years, multiple players—and in some cases entire squads—have chosen not to return after overseas tournaments.
Human rights organizations have long raised concerns about conditions in Eritrea, citing restrictions that have contributed to a steady outflow of citizens seeking asylum abroad—claims the government denies.
For many supporters, what should have been a historic sporting triumph has instead reignited attention on an ongoing issue that continues to affect Eritrean football and its international presence.
Source: AfricaNews
