As the 34th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations is set to kick off, an interesting historical feat unfolds as Mauritania boasts four brothers participating in the tournament.
Nouh Mohamed El Abd and Sidi Ahmed Mohamed El Abd, both playing at FC Nouadhibou, will join Lamine Ba and El Hadji Ba, born in France, in representing Mauritania.
This unprecedented occurrence adds a unique chapter to the history of brothers playing together in the AFCON.
The Hassan brothers of Egypt, Hossam and Ibrahim, held the previous record by winning two AFCON titles together in 1986 and 1998.
Other notable brother duos in AFCON history include:
- Kolo and Yaya Touré (Cote d'Ivoire) – Participated in six AFCON editions together (2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2015).
- André and Jordan Ayew (Ghana) – Set for their sixth AFCON together in 2023 (2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023).
- André Kana Biyik and François Omam Biyik (Cameroon) – Played together in AFCON 1988, 1990, and 1992.
- Alain and Traoré (Burkina Faso) – Participated in AFCON 2015 and 2017.
- Sambou and Mustapha Yatabaré (Mali) – Defended Mali's colours in AFCON 2015 and 2017.
- Christopher and Felix Katongo (Zambia) – Shared the AFCON journey in 2012 and 2013.
- Albert Bwanga and Robert Kazadi (DR Congo) – Part of the winning squad in AFCON 1974.
This unique dynamic of brothers playing side by side adds an extra layer of intrigue to the AFCON, showcasing the tournament's rich history and the bond of family in the world of African football.
