LAGOS – African Legend and Super Falcons sensation, Asisat Oshoala, has publicly criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for its perceived over-reliance on Morocco as a host nation for major tournaments and awards ceremonies.
The prolific striker passionately advocated for a more equitable distribution of hosting opportunities across the African continent, urging other nations to step forward.
Oshoala, who plies her trade with Saudi club Al Hilal, took to social media platform X on Thursday to voice her concerns regarding the concentration of African football events in the North African country.
“The big question here is when will this whole @CAF_Online compensation to Morocco end? Awards, tournaments and all… it’s getting boring now,” she posted. “We need other countries to step up. Everything concerning African football happens in Morocco; it feels like that’s the new HQ.”
The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year went further, proposing that Nigeria possesses the capability to successfully stage the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) through a collaborative effort with its neighbouring countries. She highlighted the geographical proximity of nations such as Cameroon, Ghana, Benin, and Togo, suggesting that a co-hosting arrangement is a viable option, provided there is sufficient commitment.
“We can co-host with our neighbours if we are serious,” Oshoala asserted. “Cameroon, Ghana, Benin, Togo are all next door… you can’t tell me two of these five neighbouring countries can’t co-host AFCON.”
Oshoala’s pointed remarks come amidst Morocco’s escalating influence within African football.
The nation is currently hosting the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, with CAF frequently commending its modern infrastructure and organisational prowess as pivotal factors in its selection.
This aligns with Morocco’s broader sporting ambitions, which include co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
While CAF has consistently lauded Morocco’s readiness to host major events, Oshoala’s intervention has reignited a crucial debate surrounding regional balance in African football.
Her impassioned plea underscores the imperative for other African nations, including Nigeria and its neighbours, to be afforded the chance to host the continent’s premier football competitions.
