Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Anthony Akumu has opened up about the heartbreak of missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, admitting this campaign might have been his last chance to feature on the continental stage.
The former Amakhosi star has revealed his sorrow following Kenya's failure to qualify for next year's continental showpiece set to be hosted in Morocco.
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The Harambee Stars' 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe ended their hopes of reaching the tournament, with the 32-year-old conceding that this campaign was likely his final opportunity to play on Africa's grandest stage.
Having missed the chance to feature at AFCON 2019 despite Kenya's qualification, Akumu viewed the current campaign as his ultimate shot at representing his country in the prestigious tournament.
"After the disappointment of missing out on the 2019 AFCON, even though we had qualified, I knew this campaign was my final shot at playing on Africa's biggest stage," Akumu told Mozzart Sport per Pulse Sports.
"At my age, I knew qualifying would give me a chance to showcase my skills at 33. Now that it hasn't happened, I don't think I have another campaign in me."
The defensive midfielder, who now plies his trade with Persian Gulf Pro League outfit Kheybar FC, is said to have been visibly emotional after the match, and had to be consoled as he wept outside of his team's dressing room.
"From the moment the draw was made, our focus was clear – we were determined to get out of the group. It didn't matter who we faced," Akumu said.
"Having been part of the campaign from the start, it felt within reach. Now, it's tough to see myself doing this all over again."
While Akumu has not ruled out a potential future with the Harambee Stars, he admitted that the time may have come to make way for younger players.
"By the time the next campaign begins, there will be younger players ready to step up. I'm not counting myself out entirely, but this may well have been my last attempt," he reflected.
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