Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have been left in uncertainty following Ivory Coast’s sudden withdrawal as hosts of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The announcement, made by the Ivorian Soccer Federation (FIF) on Tuesday, comes simply 30 days earlier than the match’s scheduled begin.
The choice has pressured the Confederation of African Soccer (CAF) to look urgently for a brand new host nation. Ivory Coast had been confirmed as hosts in December 2024 and certified routinely after initially failing to safe a spot. Nonetheless, a authorities directive has now halted all preparations.
A press release from FIF to CAF confirmed the withdrawal, with President Yacine Idriss Diallo expressing gratitude to all concerned and assuring that additional updates would comply with. Ivory Coast may now face CAF sanctions, together with a possible ban from the following two U20 AFCON tournaments.
With no confirmed substitute host, the match’s future stays unsure. Morocco, already internet hosting the U17 AFCON, is seen as a robust candidate to step in as a consequence of its present infrastructure, however CAF has but to make an official announcement.
Flying Eagles’ Plans Disrupted
The withdrawal has disrupted Nigeria’s match plans. The Flying Eagles have been set to start their marketing campaign in opposition to Egypt on 30 April in Korhogo, adopted by matches in opposition to Morocco and South Africa. With the match’s location now unclear, journey and preparation plans have to be adjusted.
At the moment, the crew is in a coaching camp in Katsina, supported by the state authorities. The Flying Eagles are aiming for no less than a semi-final end, which might safe qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile later this yr. Having gained the U20 AFCON a report seven instances, Nigeria stays hopeful that CAF will resolve the state of affairs rapidly so the match can proceed as deliberate.
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