2024-06-22 18:50:14
The African Cup of Nations (CAN), as soon as the satisfaction of the continent, is at present in unprecedented turmoil. The inconsistency of its dates and the lack of autonomy of CAF increase burning questions on the way forward for African soccer and the affect of the world’s soccer powers.
The CAN: From establishment to vagabond of the calendar
For the reason that departure of Issa Hayatou in 2017, the CAN appears to have misplaced its temporal anchoring. As 237online.com experiences, this main competitors now wanders between months, shifting from summer time to winter, and now straddling two years. This continual instability raises a vital query: has the CAN misplaced its soul similtaneously its calendar?
Morocco 2025-2026: A CAN in opposition to time
The newest determination by the CAF Govt Committee to schedule CAN 2025 from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026 in Morocco is a brand new blow for purists. This winter program, dictated by FIFA necessities, marks a transparent break with custom.
“It’s a disgrace for African soccer“, says Moussa Fofana, former Ivorian worldwide, indignant, contacted by our editorial crew. “We’re promoting off our flagship competitors to fulfill the whims of Europeans. »
FIFA: The massive dangerous wolf of African soccer?
It’s clear that FIFA, with its Membership World Cup and Nations World Cup, is placing appreciable stress on the African calendar. However how far will this affect go? Does CAF nonetheless have the means to withstand?
Issa Hayatou: The final rampart fallen
The Hayatou period seems at present as a golden age for the autonomy of African soccer. Its resistance to exterior pressures at present appears a distant reminiscence.
« Hayatou might have been authoritarian, however a minimum of he defended Africa’s pursuits.”confides on situation of anonymity a member of the Cameroonian Soccer Federation to 237online.com. “In the present day, we now have the impression that CAF has grow to be a puppet. »
Samuel Eto’o: Nationwide hero or continental gravedigger?
Samuel Eto’o’s function in Hayatou’s ouster stays a sizzling matter. Patriot for some, traitor for others, the previous Indomitable Lions striker divides. Did his motion finally serve the pursuits of African soccer?
« Eto’o might have meant effectively, however he opened Pandora’s field“, analyzes Célestin Tankou, Cameroonian sportsman. “ Now, all of Africa is paying the worth.«
An unsure future for African soccer
Confronted with these upheavals, the way forward for African soccer appears extra unsure than ever. Will the CAN have the ability to regain its former place and status? Or is it condemned to changing into a satellite tv for pc of world competitions?
One factor is for certain: African soccer is at a crossroads. Between custom and modernity, between autonomy and globalization, the alternatives that will likely be made within the coming months will likely be decisive for the way forward for this sport on the continent.
The talk has begun, and it guarantees to be heated. As a result of past the easy sporting side, your complete id of African soccer is at stake.