Sports
Okocha criticizes the timing of the AFCON tournament
Austine Jay Jay Okocha, the former captain of the Super Eagles, has criticized the scheduling of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The tournament, which takes place every two years, is typically held during the European season, causing tension between clubs and participating countries.
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According to FIFA regulations, clubs are required to release players 14 days prior to the start of the competition.
Okocha, who led Nigeria to victory in the 1994 AFCON, believes that holding the tournament in the middle of the season is unjust.
According to Okocha, African players have faced significant challenges due to the scheduling of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January or the early start of the season and winter break.
He questions why the World Cup can be rescheduled to December for the participating nations’ benefit, but similar considerations cannot be made for the AFCON.
The 2023 AFCON finals, hosted by Cote d’Ivoire, will take place from January 13 to February 11.