In a shocking twist, Ivory Coast has withdrawn from hosting the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) just weeks before kickoff.
This unexpected move has thrown the tournament into uncertainty and leaves the Confederation of African Football (CAF) scrambling for an alternative host.
The competition, initially set to run from April 26 to May 18, now faces major disruptions. With little time left, CAF must act swiftly to secure a new venue and ensure the tournament proceeds as planned.
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Although no official reason has been publicly stated, reports suggest the Ivorian government made the final decision. The country’s football federation (FIF) later confirmed the withdrawal, adding to the confusion surrounding the abrupt announcement.
Addressing the situation, FIF President Yacine Idriss Diallo stated:
“Yacine Idriss Diallo, President of the Ivorian Football Federation and Chairman of the U20 Organising Committee, informs you that the government has notified the Ivorian Football Federation, via an official letter, of Ivory Coast’s withdrawal as the host country for the U20 AFCON.”
CAF races against time
This development places CAF under immense pressure, as finding a replacement host on such short notice is no easy task. However, the football governing body must act fast to prevent a possible postponement or even cancellation of the tournament.
As the situation unfolds, teams, officials, and football fans now await an urgent decision. Whether CAF will secure a willing host or be forced into drastic measures remains to be seen.
Tags: Confederation of African Football, CAF, Ivory Coast, U20 Africa Cup of Nations, U20 AFCON, Yacine Idriss Diallo, FIF, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcsports.
