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Egypt will host the U20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) after Cote D’Ivoire withdrew at the last minute last Tuesday, citing “unforeseen circumstances.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) wasted no time in handing Cairo the tournament set to run from April 27 to May 18.
But the real drama is already brewing in Group B, where Morocco are facing a tough draw – against Nigeria, South Africa, and the hosts, Egypt.
The Pharaohs will have the home advantage and their fiery fans behind them, and will be itching to relive past glories, having seized the U20 AFCON title on home soil in 1991 and 2003.
This comes after Cote D’Ivoire pulled out from hosting the competition just weeks before the official start.
The shock decision, reportedly made by the Ivorian government, was confirmed by the country’s football federation (FIF).
In a statement, FIF President Yacine Idriss Diallo said:
“Yacine Idriss Diallo, President of the Ivorian Football Federation and Chairman of the U20 Organising Committee, informs you that the government has notified the Ivorian Football Federation, via an official letter, of Ivory Coast’s withdrawal as the host country for the U20 AFCON.”
Speculation is rife over the real reasons behind the move. But despite the turmoil, the federation attempted to downplay the impact, thanking those who had been involved in the preparations.
“The President would like to extend his deep appreciation to everyone for their commitment and the efforts made towards organising this competition.”
