The Confederation of African Football (CAF), have today confirmed that Equatorial Guinea will host the 2015 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Morocco were initially awarded the rights to host the tournament, but they pulled out this month, because of fears over the spread of the deadly Ebola virus.
Equatorial Guinea emerged front-runners to host the rest of the continent, after CAF president Issa Hayatou was confirmed to be visiting President Teodoro Obiang Nguema on Thursday. Although Qatar had signified interest in hosting if neessary, it is udnerstood that CAF were eager to keep the competition in Africa.
The Head of State and President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, received the President of CAF Issa Hayatou this Friday, November 14 concerning the possibility of Equatorial Guinea hosting the Africa Cup of Nations 2015,” a CAF statement read.
“Following friendly and fruitful discussions, the Head of State of Equatorial Guinea has agreed to host the tournament from January 17 to February 8, 2015.
“The Executive Committee of CAF President Issa Hayatou would like to take this opportunity to express their sincere thanks and deep appreciation to the people of Equatorial Guinea, to their government, and particularly to the Head of State and President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.”
A draw for the tournament will take place on Wednesday, December 3 in Malabo.
However, there might be an issue of venues, as Equatorial Guinea has just two viable stadia, which were used when they co-hosted the tournament with Gabon in 2012.
There will be 16 teams and four groups at AFCON 2015, potentially meaning Gabon could be approached to be a co-host again.
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