Africa-Press – Tanzania. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced sweeping reforms to the international football calendar, unveiling plans to launch an annual African Nations League while confirming that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will now be staged every four years starting in 2028.
The newly introduced African Nations League will be played each year across the September, October and November international windows. Designed in a regional format, the competition will divide the continent into different zones, allowing national teams to compete more regularly while reducing travel demands and logistical costs.
CAF believes the Nations League will bring greater structure and competitiveness to African international football, replacing a large portion of low-profile friendly matches with meaningful, competitive fixtures. The format is also expected to offer more consistent playing opportunities for teams outside major tournaments, improving standards and engagement across all levels.
The reforms signal CAF’s ambition to modernize African football governance and competition structures, with the long-term goal of strengthening national teams, improving player welfare, and increasing the global appeal of the African game.
