The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast is making headlines globally.
In just ten days, Emilio Nsue, a 34-year-old defender playing for Intercity in the Spanish third division, has become a standout figure, propelling Equatorial Guinea’s Nzalang Nacional to the tournament’s knockout stage.
Nsue’s unexpected goal-scoring prowess has surprised many at AFCON 2023. Despite initial expectations favoring players like Victor Osimhen, Mohammed Salah, and Sadio Mane, the limelight now shines on Nsue.
His five goals in three matches, including a hat-trick against Guinea-Bissau, have secured Equatorial Guinea’s top spot in Group A.
Notable for his versatility, Nsue plays as a right-back and winger. With a football journey that includes stints at Middlesbrough, Birmingham City, and Mallorca, he played a pivotal role in Middlesbrough’s promotion to the Premier League in 2016.
At 34 years and 110 days, Nsue holds the distinction of being the oldest player to score a hat-trick in AFCON history since 2008. His exceptional form is rewriting the narrative of this year’s tournament, with Equatorial Guinea outshining three-time champions Nigeria and two-time winners Ivory Coast in Group A.