Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president has given hints on the possible expansion of the African Football League with the inaugural edition set to feature eight major clubs in the African continent.
The AFL is the latest result of the fruitful partnership between the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, and its debut format will bring together eight of Africa’s most famous and successful teams with the aim of highlighting the quality of the game on the continent.
Speaking via a recorded video during the just concluded draw which was held in Cairo, Egypt, the world governing football leader opened up on the possibilities to see more teams participate which will allow for healthy competition as a way to push African football to the next level.
“While this first edition will certainly be fantastic, I’m already looking forward to the future, and the opportunities of the next edition, which will be expanded to feature 24 teams representing over 16 different countries.”
“More clubs means more stadiums, more host cities, and more fans watching more exciting matches, fuelling the development of African football with their fantastic passion for the game”, he added.
“This competition, African Football League is a world first and it is a great pleasure and privilege to see it come to life alongside all of you.”
The draw, featuring teams from across the entire continent, was as follows: Simba Sports Club (Tanzania) v Al Ahly FC (Egypt), Tout Puissant Mazembe (Congo DR) v Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia), Enyimba Football Club (Nigeria) v Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco) and Atlético Petróleos de Luanda (Angola) v Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa).
As revealed, the Quarter-finals start on 20 October, final on 5 and 11 November.
