Seven Eritrean players fail to return home after international match

Several footballers have absconded in the past leaving behind what rights groups call a repressive government.

Seven players from the Eritrean national football team have failed to return home after a match in South Africa, raising concerns about their whereabouts and safety.

Seven players from the Eritrean national team have been reported missing in South Africa after helping the side qualify for the group stage of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Seven players from the Eritrean national team have refused to return home after their match against Eswatini, choosing instead to stay abroad, raising concerns about their safety and the political situation in Eritrea.