The Confederation of African Football (CAF) have announced a couple of important changes to the format of its flagship African Cup of Nations.
From the competition’s next edition in 2019, it would move from its usual January/February slot to June/July, at a time when the European football season would be over.
The competition is also being expanded from 16 to 24 teams, also from 2019.
Playing the tournament in the middle of the European season has created a lot of problems for the continent’s best players, most of whom play in Europe and usually have to leave their clubs mid season to represent their countries.
Former President Issa Hayatou has long resisted the idea of reform, but new President Ahmad Ahmad is showing an ability to respond to the needs of the 21st century.
CAF also announced only African nations would participate in the Afcon, scrapping plans to perhaps invite guest teams to play in or even host the tournament.

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