CAF contemplates scrapping one-leg Champions League final format after backlash

SPORT

When Morocco, which hosted last year’s final was awarded another chance to play host again this year’s, the decision sparked a huge uproar, with Egyptian giants Al Ahly among chief protesters.

Al Ahly of Egypt beat Kaizer Chiefs in last year’s final at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.

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On Thursday CAF confirmed that it had received a letter from the Egyptian ministry of youth and sports, referring to the request by the Egyptian FA and Al Ahly for a neutral venue for the final.

“CAF appreciates and fully understands the complaints and concerns raised by Al Ahly SC and the EFA and is committed to the principles of fairness, justice and equality of all clubs and member associations,” read the statement.

“However, CAF was obligated to adhere to and implement the decision taken by the previous CAF leadership in July 2019, which was that the Champions League final would be a one-leg final rather than the usual two-legged home and away final. Furthermore, CAF is also bound by the CAF and Fifa rules which do not allow competition rules to be changed once the competition has started.”

CAF added that Morocco and Senegal were the only countries that fulfilled the hosting bid criteria, after CAF requested its 54 member associations to submit bids to host the one-leg final.

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According to the continental football governing body, Egypt did not submit a bid. South Africa and Nigeria did submit documents expressing an interest but did not fulfil the host country bidding criteria, it added.

“CAF subsequently awarded the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final to Morocco, after Senegal withdrew its bid.”

Daniel Mothowagae  Deputy sports editor +27 11 713 9001 Daniel.Mothowagae@citypress.co.za www.citypress.co.za 69 Kingsway Rd, Auckland Park