Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Anthony Akumu has expressed his heartbreak over not qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Kenya. For the experienced midfielder, this missed opportunity is especially painful, as he admits it may have been his last chance to compete on Africa’s biggest football stage.
Akumu, who has been a key player for Kenya’s Harambee Stars and enjoyed a notable stint with Kaizer Chiefs from 2020 to 2022, reflected on the disappointment of falling short. Known for his dedication and versatility, he has always been proud to represent his country, making the failure to secure a place at AFCON even harder to accept.
“This one is really difficult to take,” Akumu admitted in a recent interview. “Playing in AFCON is every player’s dream, and I worked hard to help the team qualify. Sadly, things didn’t go our way this time.”
Kenya’s AFCON campaign was marked by a series of challenges, including tough competition and inconsistent form. Despite moments of promise, the team fell short of their goal, leaving Akumu and his teammates to come to terms with the disappointment.
At 31 years old, Akumu is aware that time may not be on his side when it comes to competing at such a high level. “This could have been my last chance to play at AFCON, and it’s hard to accept that reality,” he shared. “But football is unpredictable, and I’ll always support the Harambee Stars, whether I’m on the field or cheering them on from the sidelines.”
Akumu reflected proudly on his career, particularly his time at Kaizer Chiefs, where he gained valuable experience playing in high-pressure competitions like the CAF Champions League. “Being part of Chiefs was a highlight for me. It taught me how to handle both success and setbacks in football,” he said.
Looking to the future, Akumu hopes to inspire and mentor younger players in Kenyan football. “Our future lies with the upcoming generation of players. I want to see them achieve what we couldn’t, and I’ll do everything I can to guide them,” he said.
Although missing out on AFCON is a bitter disappointment for Akumu, his passion for the game and commitment to Kenyan football remain strong. His career, built on hard work and loyalty, continues to leave a lasting impression on both club and country, cementing his status as one of Kenya’s most respected players.
