Algerian Football Federation (FAF) president Walid Sadi participated in the final executive committee meeting of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Tuesday morning at the Marriott Mena House Hotel in Cairo.
Invited in his capacity as interim president of the North African Football Union (UNAF), Sadi joined discussions focused on key continental football matters ahead of CAF’s Extraordinary General Assembly.
According to an official statement from CAF, the meeting addressed several major topics, including the upcoming U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, the latter stages of the CAF Women’s Champions League, and the Association of African Clubs. These discussions aimed to refine competition frameworks and enhance football development across the continent.
CAF President Engages with Zonal Unions
A day prior to the executive committee meeting, CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe held separate discussions with representatives from the six regional unions—COSAFA (Southern Africa), CECAFA (East Africa), UNIFFAC (Central Africa), UFOA A (West Africa A), UFOA B (West Africa B), and UNAF (North Africa).
The purpose of these meetings was to assess the current state of football in each region, review the progress made through CAF partnerships, and identify areas for further collaboration.
Motsepe emphasized the importance of continued investment in African football at the grassroots and professional levels, highlighting CAF’s efforts to strengthen regional competitions and club structures.
Over the past four years, CAF has pursued strategic partnerships to boost football infrastructure, youth development programs, and financial sustainability for clubs and national federations.
Key Figures Absent from UNAF Meeting
Notably, three prominent figures from North African football—Hani Abou Rida (Egypt), Faouzi Lekjaa (Morocco), and Walid Sadi (Algeria)—did not attend the UNAF meeting with Motsepe. Their absence raised questions about internal dynamics within the regional body and its alignment with CAF’s broader objectives.
While no official explanation was provided for their non-attendance, the situation underscores the evolving political landscape within African football administration.
UNAF, which represents some of the continent’s most competitive football nations, plays a crucial role in shaping CAF policies and tournament structures.
Strategic Discussions Ahead of CAF’s Extraordinary Assembly
The executive committee meeting served as a precursor to CAF’s 14th Extraordinary General Assembly, where significant governance and competition-related decisions are expected to be made.
With African football undergoing a period of transformation, discussions surrounding youth tournaments, women’s football, and club development remain at the forefront of CAF’s strategic vision.
Walid Sadi’s participation in the executive committee meeting marks a notable moment for Algerian football, reaffirming its influence within CAF’s decision-making structures. As CAF moves forward with its agenda, the involvement of regional leaders like Sadi will be pivotal in shaping the future of African football.
