Feghouli among notable Africa Cup absentees
Mi d fi e l d e r s S o fi an e Feghou li of Algeria, Hakim Ziyech of Morocco and striker Basem Morsy of Egypt are among notable absentees from the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations squads.
All failed to find favour as coaches put the final touches to squads for the tournament, which starts on January 14 with a match between hosts Gabon and debutants Guinea-Bissau.
Medial outlets report on the 16 contenders as the Ivory Coast prepare to defend a title they won in Equatorial Guinea two years ago by edging Ghana in a penalty shootout. plays for African champions Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa are among those carrying the hopes of a country seeking to reach the knockout stage for the first time. thirdp laced Arsenal nine points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea.
A second successive win following consecutive preChristmas defeats offers Arsenal renewed hope of a sustained title challenge in 2017.
But while the specifics of this otherwise routine victory will soon fade, the memory of Giroud’s gem will remain emblazoned in the minds of all who were privileged enough to witness it.
Palace won’t feel quite so warm and fuzzy about a defeat that leaves them without a win in of the new season, fearing political tensions could spill over into stadiums. AFP French league leaders Nice may make it to Gabon after being ruled out of consideration several weeks ago due to a broken toe. A surprise exclusion from the 26-man preliminary squad was Ajax Amsterdam midfielder Hakim Ziyech.