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The African Cup of Nations kicks off in Cameroon this weekend as the continent looks for its next champions. AC Milan are represented in the tournament by three players, all of whom are on teams that are expected to go quite far and challenge for the title. Here’s a preview of the next few weeks.
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Fode Ballo-Toure - Senegal
The left back has not featured much for Milan but may get the chance in the AFCON as he competes more vehemently for a starting spot there. Senegal are expected to top their group going up against Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and Cape Verde. The defender will be looking to gain some confidence in Cameroon to further ingrain himself into the Milan side.
vs Zimbabwe - 10/01 - 13:00 GMT
vs Guinea - 14/01 - 13:00 GMT
vs Malawi - 18/01 - 16:00 GMT
Ismael Bennacer - Algeria
The midfielder is a focal point for his side as he often pulls the strings of the midfield. This will be a big tournament for him as Algeria look to defend their title and Bennacer looks to put in another dominant display at the tournament following his exceptional performance in 2019. Algeria are in the same group as Cote d’Ivoire hence Bennacer will go head to head with Kessie but both side are expected to qualify and go deep in the tournament. They also have Sierra Leone and Equatorial Guinea in the group.
vs Sierra Leone - 11/01 - 13:00 GMT
vs Equatorial Guinea - 16/01 - 19:00 GMT
vs Cote d’Ivoire - 20/01 - 16:00 GMT
Franck Kessie - Cote d’Ivoire
The midfielder will be in the same group as Bennacer and he will be raring at the opportunity to upset the favourites and defending champions. Kessie’s side will be a dark horse in the tournament as they possess lots of talent but often lack chemistry. Kessie is a central figure in his side and a leader but also maintains the penalty duty so look out for him to bag a few goals in the competition.
vs Equatorial Guinea - 12/01 - 19:00 GMT
vs Sierra Leone - 16/01 - 16:00 GMT
vs Algeria - 20/01 - 16:00 GMT
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