By Kwame Bediako
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has announced a transformative overhaul of African football tournaments, confirming that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will revert to a four-year cycle starting in 2028.
This decision replaces the recent biennial format, with the next edition set for 2028 followed by 2032. Alongside this, a brand-new African Nations League will launch annually from 2029, providing national teams with regular competitive action year-round.
The changes aim to streamline scheduling and boost the continent’s football ecosystem. By aligning AFCON with the global calendar, mirroring events like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro, CAF seeks to minimize disruptions for clubs and enhance player preparation.
For players, the implications are profound. The quadrennial AFCON reduces fixture congestion, allowing stars like Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, and Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus more recovery time amid packed European club seasons.
The annual Nations League introduces high-stakes qualifiers and friendlies, fostering tactical growth and rivalries without the exhaustion of back-to-back major tournaments.
Clubs and fans stand to benefit too. European powerhouses, often frustrated by mid-season AFCON call-ups, will appreciate the predictability, potentially easing tensions over player releases.
