Equatorial Guinea’s football federation has imposed an indefinite suspension on striker Emilio Nsue, citing his alleged involvement in “several episodes of serious indiscipline” during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast.
The 34-year-old, who emerged as the top scorer of the tournament with five goals in four matches, faced repercussions for his actions despite his impressive performance as Equatorial Guinea bowed out in the last 16.
Additionally, National Thunder midfielder Iban Salvador has also been suspended following an “unpleasant incident” in Abidjan on 29 January, a day after the team’s 1-0 defeat by Guinea, which led to their tournament exit. The Equatoguinean federation (Feguifut) reported that Ivorian authorities had to intervene, causing a delay in the squad’s return to Equatorial Guinea.
Notably, Nsue was present in Abidjan to collect the golden boot award following Ivory Coast’s triumph over Nigeria in the Nations Cup final. The Intercity player, who has previously played for Birmingham City and Middlesbrough, holds the record for the country’s all-time top international scorer with 22 goals.
With the National Thunder’s next competitive fixtures scheduled for June, during which they will participate in two 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the suspension casts uncertainty over the team’s lineup and performance dynamics.
