‘Protect African football’: Doctor Khumalo blasts CAF-FIFA over AFCON ruling

Bafana Bafana royalty, Doctor Khumalo, has voiced stern criticism of CAF and FIFA following the controversial decision to limit player release for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to just seven days prior to the tournament.

With the 2025 AFCON in Morocco scheduled to run through the Christmas and New Year period for the first time—kicking off on Sunday, 21 December—FIFA announced that the release principle would mirror that of the 2022 Winter World Cup. This dictates that players only need to be released by their clubs on 15 December.

Seven Days to Prepare? Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo Hits Out

Speaking passionately on the popular South African television show SoccerZone, the Kaizer Chiefs icon Khumalo argued that CAF missed a critical opportunity to assert the prestige of the continent’s flagship tournament and protect its competing nations.

“I think CAF should learn, they need to protect African football,” Khumalo stated, acknowledging that while the bulk of players compete in Europe, the governing body must demand respect for its own event.

The iconic former midfielder believes the blame lies squarely with African football’s leadership for ceding ground to external pressures.

“If they [FIFA] went to approach CAF, CAF should’ve stood their ground and said ‘no, we are starting this tournament on 21st or whatever day, but players need to be released three or two weeks before,” Khumalo insisted. “Because what is the coach doing with seven days?”

Khumalo highlighted that the shortened preparation window severely hampers national team coaches, particularly those relying heavily on players flying in from various top leagues globally.

Silver Lining for Bafana?

Despite his overall disappointment with CAF’s concession, Khumalo did offer a slightly positive outlook for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, under the unique circumstances.

“Maybe on the other hand, it’s good for Bafana because 90% are local,” he conceded, referring to the fact that Hugo Broos’ squad relies less on Europe-based players compared to other AFCON contenders, potentially mitigating the impact of the seven-day restriction on Bafana’s readiness.

The tournament kicks off on December 21, 2025, with hosts Morocco taking on Comoros in Rabat. The final is scheduled for January 18, 2026.