Football glory is often measured by silverware, but for some of the game’s most iconic legends, the Africa Cup of Nations remained an elusive dream. While stars like Mohamed Salah have conquered Europe, the “Egyptian King” still hunts for that crowning continental achievement. The current edition in Morocco will likely be his last chance to banish the ghosts of the past, including two final defeats. Ivorian striker Didier Drogba also never won the trophy, infamously missing crucial penalties in two finals. Meanwhile, Liberian George Weah, the continent’s only Ballon d’Or winner, could not carry his nation past the group stage in the only two tournaments he participated in. Nigeria’s Nwankwo Kanu experienced multiple semi-final heartbreaks after a lost final, while Ghana’s Michael Essien battled injuries that prevented him from ending his country’s long drought. Their collective near-misses underscore how legendary status doesn’t always guarantee a trophy.
BBC
