CAF, FIFA reach agreement to reschedule 2025 AFCON, alleviating European club concerns
By Charity Nginyu
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) have come to a mutual agreement to reschedule the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The prestigious tournament, set to take place in Morocco, will now be held from mid-July to mid-August 2025.
The timing of the tournament has long been a bone of contention, particularly for European clubs who are disproportionately affected by the absence of key African players during crucial stages of the season.
Top European club owners and coaches have repeatedly voiced their concerns over the disruption caused by the AFCON, arguing that it disrupts the rhythm of their teams and compromises their competitive edge.
By shifting the tournament from mid-July to mid-August, CAF and FIFA aim to mitigate these concerns and ensure greater harmony between international and club football calendars.
This move has been welcomed by stakeholders across the footballing world, as it not only addresses the longstanding issue of scheduling conflicts but also enhances the prestige and competitiveness of the AFCON. With the tournament now aligning more closely with the off-season for many European clubs, fans can expect to see a higher caliber of football and greater participation from top African players.
The decision equally marks a significant departure from the traditional scheduling of the AFCON, which has historically taken place in January or February.
