Chelle Backs 2 Yests AFCON Cycle As CAF Reviews Tournament Format

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has endorsed calls to return the Africa Cup of Nations to its traditional biennial schedule, saying the two-year cycle is vital for the growth of African football.

Chelle, who led Mali at the 2023 AFCON and Nigeria at the 2025 edition, argued that holding the continent’s biggest tournament every two years would give African nations more chances to improve, develop players and face top-level opposition.

Speaking to SABC Sport, he said: “For me, it’s perfect because when you want to improve, having one tournament every four years is difficult. So, having a tournament every two years now is perfect, so we can continue to improve.”

The Confederation of African Football had announced plans to switch AFCON to a four-year cycle, but CAF president Patrice Motsepe has recently hinted that the decision could be reviewed, reopening the debate over the competition’s future.

Chelle insists more frequent tournaments would help African teams close the competitive gap with international rivals.

“We can grow together; we will play two big tournaments instead of the other nations playing one tournament,” he added.

The Super Eagles boss also stressed the importance of regular high-level international competition in preparing African sides for the FIFA World Cup. He believes a biennial AFCON would offer valuable experience and help teams sharpen their tactical and technical abilities.

Off the pitch, Chelle pointed to the economic benefits of hosting the tournament more often, citing opportunities to attract tourists, boost business and generate revenue for host nations.

With CAF reconsidering its position, Chelle’s support adds weight to the growing debate over AFCON’s schedule, with the coach convinced that a two-year cycle would give African football a stronger platform to grow.