The upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has found itself at the centre of fresh controversy following scathing remarks from former Turkish international, Hassan Sas. The ex-Galatasaray winger has bluntly stated that the continental tournament lacks quality, echoing a sentiment he claims is shared by numerous European clubs.
European Clubs Unhappy with AFCON Timing and Quality
The 35th edition of Africa's premier football competition is scheduled to kick off in Morocco on December 21, 2025, and will conclude with the final on January 18, 2026. As per FIFA mandate, European clubs are required to release their African players for national duty one week before the tournament begins, a rule that consistently causes disruption to European league schedules.
Hassan Sas, a legend in Turkish football, did not mince words in his criticism. Speaking to SunSport, Sas declared, "The Africa Cup of Nations, everyone in the Premier League, the German league, the French league, and the Turkish leagues is complaining." He further elaborated on his harsh assessment, pointing to infrastructure and player quality as key issues.
"The guys have given away 20 million each, transfer fees, everything—the Africa Cup of Nations. There’s nothing but vuvuzelas. The pitches are bad, yellowed. We can’t even pick apart the players; they all look the same, and there is no quality," Sas stated, in comments that are sure to ignite debate among African football fans and stakeholders.
History of Criticism and CAF's New Measures
This is not the first time the AFCON has faced criticism from European football figures. In 2021, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp famously referred to the tournament as a 'little tournament', a comment that drew widespread condemnation. Klopp's frustration stemmed from losing key players like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Naby Keita during a crucial part of the club season.
In response to various operational challenges, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is introducing several new regulations for the 2025 edition. According to reports, these measures are designed to streamline the tournament's organization. One key rule mandates that all participating teams must submit their final squad lists at least ten days before the opening match.
Super Eagles' Confidence Amidst the Controversy
Despite the external criticism, confidence remains high within African squads. Nigeria's Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has publicly backed his team's chances of lifting the trophy in Morocco. "We have the players to do it, we believe we can, we just have to prove it. I would like to speak it into existence, I like to manifest, I want to say Nigeria (will win the AFCON)," Iwobi declared, showcasing the optimism prevalent among the continent's footballing nations.
The stage is now set for a fascinating tournament in Morocco, where the quality of football on the pitch will be the ultimate response to its critics. With new CAF regulations in place and top African stars ready to represent their countries, AFCON 2025 aims to showcase the very best of African football to the world.
