AFCON 2025 set for kickoff in Morocco
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco today, bringing together 24 of the continent’s best teams in a tournament already marked by debate over its timing. The competition was originally planned for the summer but was moved to December and January, a switch that has angered many European clubs forced to release key African players mid season. Columnist Patrick Omorodion notes that the calendar change has revived long standing tensions between club and country whenever AFCON is staged during the European season. Despite the complaints, he argues that African football authorities must prioritise conditions that suit the continent’s climate and infrastructure rather than bowing completely to European interests. The expanded 24 team format means more countries now have the chance to play on the big stage, raising excitement among fans across Africa. However, it also increases pressure […]