The Confederation of African Football (CAF) could be considering a major U-turn on its controversial decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, following growing opposition from prominent African coaches and football officials who believe the change could harm the development of football across the continent.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe recently acknowledged that the governing body was reviewing its plans, with a possible return to the traditional two-year schedule among the options being considered. His comments, reportedly made during a CAF strategy conference in Cape Verde earlier this month, have renewed hope among supporters who want AFCON to remain a regular feature of African football.

In December 2025, CAF announced plans to move AFCON to a four-year cycle after the 2027 and 2028 editions. The proposal was intended to accommodate changes to the international football calendar, including the introduction of an African Nations League.

However, the decision sparked criticism, with concerns about its potential impact on national teams, host countries and the commercial value of the continent's biggest international football tournament.

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle is among those who support retaining the biennial format. The Super Eagles manager believes playing AFCON every two years gives national teams more opportunities to develop, improve their squads and establish stronger identities through regular competition.

Chelle has also highlighted the economic benefits of hosting the tournament, pointing to opportunities for tourism, businesses and infrastructure development.

Other respected coaches, including Hervé Renard, Sébastien Desabre and Claude Le Roy, have also expressed concerns about the proposed four-year cycle. They argue that AFCON's importance extends beyond football, providing wider social and economic benefits to African communities.

For South Africa, a return to the two-year schedule could benefit Bafana Bafana by providing more regular opportunities to compete against the continent's strongest teams.

Although CAF has yet to announce a final decision, the growing opposition has placed the proposed changes under renewed scrutiny. Supporters will now be watching closely to see whether the governing body abandons its four-year plan and preserves AFCON's traditional biennial format.

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