When the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off on June 21 in Cairo, five China-based players will catch the eyes of the fans as the continental tournament runs till July 19.

"China is starting to attract top talent and it will take time before they challenge the dominance of European leagues. The policies and priorities that China is putting in place will certainly help develop Africa football than what the European countries have done. With five players, China has its presence and it can only go up," said Nicholas Musonye, a member of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) committee and head of regional Council of East and Central Africa Football Federation.

Nigeria's Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo, the leading goal scorer at Shanghai Greenland Shenhua, will battle for the AFCON golden boots.

The Super Eagles who are returning to the tournament after missing the last two editions have been drawn against Madagascar, Burundi, and Guinea in Group B.

Another player to watch out for will be Zimbabwe international forward Nyasha Mushekwi, who plays for Dalian Yifang.

French-born Cedric Bakambu, who plays for Chinese club Beijing Guoan, says he hopes the Democratic Republic of Congo will excel in Egypt.

Cameroon's head coach Clarence Seedorf has also picked Christian Bassogog, the best young player in the 2017 Nations Cup who plays for Henan Jianye in the Chinese Super League.

Also, Kenya's midfielder Ayub Timbe Masika, who plays for Beijing Renhe, has recovered from a knee injury and eyes for an appearance at AFCON.

Kenya is paired against Algeria, Senegal, and Tanzania in Pool C and will play its group matches in Cairo.

"Our first match against Algeria will be tough, but we are ready to fight as a team and to do our best. We know that after doing this, results will come," said Timbe.

The Africa Cup of Nations gets underway on Friday when hosts Egypt face Zimbabwe.