'Disappearance' for 18 years, Eritrea's national team reappears causing a stir across Africa

Eritrea returns to AFCON qualification after 18 years of absence, immediately attracting significant attention from experts and African fans.

Eritrea will officially end its 18-year absence from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) when facing Eswatini in the first round of qualification for the 2027 edition. The match will take place in Meknes (Morocco) instead of at home, as the East African nation lacks an internationally-standard facility to host the match.

The need to "borrow a stadium" for their return match somewhat reflects the current state of Eritrean football. Nevertheless, after years of isolation, this national team has decided to re-enter the continental arena, opening a new chapter with changes in squad and coaching staff—key factors that will determine their success.

Known by the nickname "The Red Sea Camels," Eritrea has not participated in the top-level African national team competition since the 2008 qualification round. For a long period, the federation gave no official explanation, but many sources indicate that players seeking asylum abroad was the main reason.

According to United Nations estimates, around 80 Eritrean players and coaches have fled, citing reasons related to "political repression and prolonged military service." This situation left Eritrean football nearly paralyzed on the international stage, even being removed from FIFA's rankings due to inactivity.Therefore, their sudden return after nearly two decades immediately caused a sensation and became one of the most shocking stories in African football today.

At this new turning point, Eritrean Football Federation President, Mr. Paulos Andemariam, stated: “After positive discussions with the government, we have registered for AFCON 2027, and I believe the team will be strong, including many Eritrean players competing outside Africa.”

This squad of 24 players includes 14 names playing abroad, ranging from Europe to Asia. Notable are Siem Eyob-Abraha (Sheffield United) and striker Ali Sulieman, whom coach Hesham Yakan praised: “He is a left-footed striker, fast, scores consistently in Egypt, and also creates opportunities well.”

However, Eritrea's biggest limitation remains lack of competitive experience. Their last international match was 7 years ago, a loss to Namibia in World Cup qualification. This could make them vulnerable against Eswatini— a team that has never qualified for AFCON but has maintained more stable activity.

The second leg will be played on March 31, and the winner after two matches will advance to the group stage consisting of 12 groups, each with 4 teams, starting in September. Eritrea's return is not only a sporting milestone but also a sign of efforts to break free from a prolonged period of isolation spanning nearly two decades.