BolaNews shines the light on the top five African footballers, both male and female, who have made the most international appearances on the continent.
Janine Van Wyk – (South Africa, 184 caps)
The South African captain became the joint all-time most-capped player on the continent when she featured for Banyana Banyana in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers against Burkina Faso. Another opportunity in next week’s second-leg qualifier will make her the most-capped player with 185 appearances.
AHMED HASAN – (Egypt,184 caps)
The retired Egyptian midfielder made 184 appearances for the Pharaohs across his 17-year career to write his name in the history books. Hassan retired from football in 2013, and his record has stood for 11 years before Van Wyk equaled but remains the most capped male footballer on the continent.
HOSSAM HUSSEIN HASSAN – (Egypt,170 caps)
Hossam Hussein Hassan played 170 times for Egypt. He also scored 83 goals, making him Egypt’s all-time leading scorer. Hussein, who is now a local coach in Egypt, had a stellar career for the Pharaohs between 1985 and 2006.
NOKOU MATLAOU – (South Africa, 169 caps)
The Banyana Banyana Defender has been at it since 2006 and is still growing strong. Being one of the most experienced players in the team, Matlaou is one game away from equaling Hossam Hussein Hassan’s 170 appearance record, as she is one of the regular figures for the South African women’s team.
Essam El-Hadary – (Egypt – 159 caps)
With 159 appearances for the Pharaohs, Essam El-Haddry is the continent’s fifth-most-capped player. The Egyptian legend is also the oldest goalkeeper to play in a FIFA World Cup game, having done so during the Russian 2018 edition before retiring.
