The second edition of the African Football League will be played in 2024. The maiden edition of the AFL was won by Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa after beating Wydad Casablanca of Morocco 3-2 on aggregate in the finals.
The 8 teams selected for the competition were not based on performance but rather were just hand-picked.
Zamalek SC believes there’s no meritocracy in the African Football League hence it is not as important as the other club competitions organised by CAF because clubs are invited but rather are not allowed to earn the spot.
AL Ahly has released a statement echoing what their brothers Zamalek are saying.
“We have to agree with Zamalek. They have facts about how African football should be opened to everyone to play qualifications and not be chosen. Every Club wants money. So why choose clubs instead of lying down a pathway to the main event?
No competition under the Confederation of African Football or FIFA which has a criteria of choice. All rules State that everyone in football must have equal opportunity to qualify. TotalEnergies CAF Champions League & Confederation Cup is the most important tournament for now. It has a lot of credibility. Every Club have a chance to make its debut because you need to qualify with merit, not by the finger of someone sitting in the boardroom.
We have learned that our Club Al Ahly has been once again invited to participate in the African football league, but without Zamalek has 5 CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, we will ask for our withdrawal under the criteria to be clear and in good benefits for everyone in Africa. Money tournaments must also include other poor clubs to stand a chance to maintain themselves. You can not close them outside while others are inside without Merit.”
Al Ahly believes the African Football League lacks credibility and is considering their options.
