By Ali Elias
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been rescheduled for early 2026, avoiding a clash with the expanded 32-team Club World Cup. Originally set for June, the tournament will now take place in Morocco six months later.
The move comes after CAF’s general secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba, raised concerns about player welfare and the feasibility of consecutive tournaments. “We must prioritize player interests and balance scheduling with our partners,” Mosengo-Omba said, acknowledging the “scheduling nightmare” faced by all.
The Club World Cup is set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, making a June AFCON date impossible. By delaying the tournament, CAF aims to ensure player safety and avoid a scheduling conflict.