Emilio Nsue returns as Equatorial Guinea Unveils Final AFCON 2025 Squad
The Nzalang Nacional is gearing up for its fifth-ever appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with Head Coach Juan Micha announcing the final squad that aims to build on their remarkable run in the last edition. The squad features a blend of experienced foreign-based professionals and emerging talent, all focused on navigating a tricky Group E that includes continental giants Algeria, the physical challenge of Burkina Faso, and the unpredictable Sudan.
The most significant news surrounding the squad is the highly anticipated inclusion of star striker and captain Emilio Nsue (CF Intercity, Spain). The Golden Boot winner from the 2023 AFCON, Nsue’s international career has been marked by recent turbulence, including an indefinite internal suspension from the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation due to alleged indiscipline and a temporary FIFA eligibility issue, both of which appear to have been resolved. His recall for the national team is a massive lift, returning his essential leadership and proven clinical finishing to the attacking third.
The Full Final Squad List for AFCON 2025
Goalkeepers
Jesús Owono (FC Andorra, Spain), Manuel Sapunga (Sekhukhune United, South Africa), Aitor Embela (Soneja, Spain).
Defenders
Carlos Akapo (Amazonas FC, Brazil), Esteban Obiang Obono (FC Argeș Pitești, Romania), Saúl Coco (Torino FC, Italy), Marvin Anieboh Pallaruelo (San Sebastián de los Reyes, Spain), Basilio Ndong (CS Mioveni, Romania), Néstor Senra Pérez (Recreativo Huelva, Spain), Javier Mum Boho (Dinamo-Auto Tiraspol, Moldova), Charles Ondo (Portland Timbers 2, USA), Prince Ngaah (Real Ávila CF, Spain), Enmanuel Mbomio Angue (Atlético Ottawa, Canada).
Midfielders
Omar Mascarell (RCD Mallorca, Spain), Pedro Obiang (15 de Agosto, Angola), Pablo Ganet Cómitre (Persita Tangerang, Indonesia), Jannick Buyla (CD Numancia, Spain), Santiago Eneme Bocari (Sparta Prague, Czech Republic), Alejandro Martín Masogo (Beroe Stara Zagora, Bulgaria), Gael Joel Akogo Esono Nchama (Granada CF, Spain), Federico Bikoro (Club not specified).
Forwards
Emilio Nsue López (CF Intercity, Spain), Ibán Salvador (Wisła Płock, Poland), Dorian Junior Hanza Meha (Viborg FF, Denmark), Luis Asue (Shanghai Shenhua, China), José Antonio Miranda Boacho (Kalamata FC, Greece), Lorenzo Zúñiga Owono (Real Madrid Castilla, Spain), Josete Miranda (Club not specified).
The inclusion of Nsue, alongside the creative talents of Ibán Salvador (who was also suspended but has been recalled) and the defensive solidity provided by Saúl Coco, makes the Nzalang Nacional a dangerous dark horse once again. The team’s success will hinge on the experience of veterans like Omar Mascarell and Pedro Obiang in controlling the midfield. Equatorial Guinea’s recent history shows they have consistently defied the odds, and they will rely on this blend of European-based talent and resilience to navigate their group stage fixtures, which begin on December 24, 2025.
