Equatorial Guinea Name Star-Studded Squad for November Friendly with Harambee Stars

Equatorial Guinea © Imago

Equatorial Guinea Name Star-Studded Squad for November Friendly with Harambee Stars

Festus Chuma 10:45 - 08.11.2025

Nzalang Nacional has named a strong squad for friendlies against Kenya and Zambia, with returning veterans but without Nsue.

Equatorial Guinea national team head coach Juan Michá Obiang has announced his 24-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Kenya and Zambia.

The match against Harambee Stars match, scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Emir Complex in Turkey, serves as a crucial preparation test for both nations.

The Nzalang Nacional are deep in their preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco and the friendly in Turkey is part of a two-match tour for Equatorial Guinea, who will also face Zambia on November 12. 

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

The most glaring omission from the 24-man list is captain and talisman, Emilio Nsue. The absence of the Intercity Sant Joan d'Alacant forward is a significant talking point, as Nsue was the surprise Golden Boot winner at the 2023 AFCON, scoring five goals. 

 Another player, Nabil, is also absent, with Michá explaining that "the club has requested the player be given a rest."

Despite Nsue's absence, the "star-studded" tag is justified by the return of several high-profile veterans. 

Michá has recalled key midfielders who ply their trade in top European leagues, significantly bolstering the team's spine. 

The returning trio includes Omar Mascarell of Spain's La Liga side RCD Mallorca, Pedro Obiang from Italy's Serie A club AC Monza, and forward Josete Miranda of Greek side PS Kalamata.

European-Based Talent Returns

Emilio Nsue

The squad is rich with European-based talent, highlighting the challenge Harambee Stars will face. In goal, Jesús Owono on loan at FC Andorra from Alavés is a reliable presence. The defence is anchored by Saúl Coco of Italy's Serie A side Torino FC, alongside experienced players like Carlos Akapo (Amazonas FC) and Esteban Orozco (FC Argeș Pitești).

The midfield creativity will be marshalled by the returning Mascarell and Obiang, supported by mainstays like Pablo Ganet (Persita Tangerang). 

The attack, even without Nsue, remains dangerous, featuring the tenacious Iban Salvador (Wisła Płock) and the returning Miranda. The final 24-man list includes three goalkeepers, 10 defenders, seven midfielders, and four forwards.

Tough Test Awaits Harambee Stars

Equatorial Guinea || Imago

Harambee Stars are set to report for their local camp on Sunday, November 9, before jetting out to Türkiye on Wednesday, November 12. 

The clash with Equatorial Guinea will be their first of two friendlies in Antalya.

After facing the Nzalang Nacional on November 14, the Stars will then turn their attention to another 2025 AFCON participant, Senegal, on Tuesday, November 18, at the Mardan Stadium. 

Full squad:

Goalkeepers: Jesús Owono, Manuel Sapunga, Aitor Embela

Defenders: Esteban Orozco, Marvin Anieboh, Carlos Akapo, Saúl Coco, Michel Ngaah, Charles Ondo, Néstor Senra, Javier Mum, Emmanuel Mbomo, Iroviemene

Midfielders: Pablo Ganet, Omar Mascarell, Pedro Obiang, Alex Masogo, Jannick Buyla, Gael Akogo, Santiago Eneme

Forwards: Iban Salvador, Josete Miranda, Luismi Nlavo, Loren Zúñiga, Dorian Junior