Kaizer Chiefs icon Wedson Nyirenda has strongly condemned CAF’s decision to shift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to a four-year cycle.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe recently outlined a major overhaul of the confederation’s international calendar ahead of AFCON 2025. Among the key changes announced was the move to stage AFCON every four years from 2028, mirroring the format of the UEFA European Championship.
Motsepe also confirmed plans to introduce a new competition, the CAF Nations League, and further confirmed that the African Nations Championship (CHAN) will be scrapped.
Nyirenda has joined a growing list of critics, including Egypt coach Hossam Hassan, who have voiced opposition to the reforms.
In an interview with BolaNews, Nyirenda argued that reducing the frequency of AFCON would be detrimental to African football.
“I am against AFCON being played every four years. We need our AFCON frequently,” he said.
He also raised concerns over CAF’s decision to discontinue the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which showcases local-based talent.
“How do we wait four years for AFCON and at the same time cancel CHAN? That is not right.
“Some players shine in one year and the next they are shadows. Without CHAN and with fewer AFCON tournaments, what will these players be looking forward to?
Nyirenda stressed that CHAN offered a crucial platform for domestic players who may not immediately break into their national teams.
“The cancellation of CHAN has obviously felt unpleasant to all local players who do not see a chance of making AFCON squads.
“CHAN has been a second platform for players to be recognised and spotted by the world. Its removal shrinks the platform of exposure for our players,” he added.
CAF has since confirmed that the African Nations Championship will be scrapped under the new structure.
