Tottenham Hotspur and Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier has termed “stupid” a decision to offer the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosting rights to Cameroon.
After taking away the 2019 AFCON from Cameroon for unpreparedness, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) offered them the 2021 hosting rights which were initially awarded to Ivory Coast.
A leaked confidential letter from CAF boss Ahmad to Cameroon’s Head of State Paul Biya indicated that “the CAF Executive Committee will be honored to see Cameroon hosting the 2021 edition.”
“It will allow Cameroon to complete in comfort all its projects and security issues.”
In interview with French TV channel Canal +, Ivory Coast skipper Serge Aurier called the decision stupid and political.
“I’m shocked, I do not understand this decision.
Read: Cameroon Will Be Ready To Host Afcon 2019, President Paul Biya Assures
For me, it’s a disaster, a matter of politicians. It’s a shame, it’s a stupid decision. As a player, we want this AFCON in 2021 in our country,” said Aurier.
A member of the CAF Executive Committee, Musa Bility, of Liberia reportedly contradicted the Ahmad’s position saying the 2021 and 2023 AFCON editions will stay in Ivory Coast and Guinea respectively.
“Our position today is very clear: the host country for 2021 is Ivory Coast and Guinea for 2013,” Musa was quoted by AllezLesLions.
Both countries are said to be lagging behind is getting ready to stage a 24-team tournament down from 16 when they won the rights.
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