RABAT – The African Cup of Nations will have 24 teams instead of 16 from 2019 onwards, and will be held during June and July in future.
Those were some of the major recommendations to come out of the Caf executive committee meeting in Rabat following the completion of the first African Football Symposium.
The committee advocated the establishment of a working group to work on the implementation of the resolutions and propose a short, medium and long-term implementation timetable. However, a consensus emerged on a number of issues per workshop.
It was agreed on an African Cup of Nations of 24 teams – an increase from 16 – as of the 2019 edition, with a tournament which will have to take place between the months of June and July.
The competition will continue to be held every two years, odd years and exclusively on the African continent and with African teams.
The committee will also maintain the current format with regards to inter-club competitions, but will look to change the timing of the inter-club competitions, which are expected to stretch from August to May.
The committee recognises the urgent need for improved relations between CAF, its member associations, the States and the African Union.
The committee endorsed the principle of creating a framework for consultation with African legendary footballers and their greater involvement in CAF activities and bodies
The committee noted the lifting of the suspension of Sudan by FIFA, and indicated that the Sudanese clubs engaged in the Champions League and Confederation Cup are not disqualified but lose, in accordance with the regulations, their matches of the sixth day of the group stage.
As a result, Sudanese club Hilal El Obied is qualified for the quarter-finals of the Confederation Cup.