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Libya Press
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has submitted a formal request to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) seeking to increase club slots for top-ranked nations in both the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup — a move poised to fundamentally reshape African club football starting next season.
EFA President Hani Abu Rida spearheaded the initiative, presenting the proposal directly to CAF President Patrice Motsepe after weeks of private discussions. The plan calls for expanding from two to three slots per nation for the continent's highest-ranked football associations, a 50% increase in continental representation that would take effect as early as the 2026/27 campaign.
Under the proposed framework, top-ranked nations would receive three berths in both the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. Egypt currently holds four total slots — Zamalek and Pyramids FC in the Champions League, while Al-Ahly and Ceramica Cleopatra are competing in the Confederation Cup. The expansion would add two more Egyptian clubs to the continental stage.
Countries consistently ranked among Africa's elite — Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and South Africa — stand to benefit most from the reallocation. The proposal is specifically designed for nations that have demonstrated sustained success and invested heavily in football infrastructure.
While Motsepe has expressed initial approval after multiple private consultations with Abu Rida, the final decision rests with the CAF Executive Committee. Journalist Ahmed Shobeir revealed that the committee will convene less than ten days before the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to deliberate on the expansion plan.
Committee members remain deeply divided. Proponents argue that expanding slots for top nations raises competition quality, increases broadcasting revenue, and rewards consistent performance. Critics warn it could concentrate power among wealthy associations, reduce competitive balance, and marginalize smaller federations struggling to qualify. Motsepe's leadership influence is expected to be decisive in tilting the balance.
The expansion arrives at a strategic moment for African club football. CAF has prioritized commercial growth and global viewership, and granting more slots to elite nations strengthens the organization's ability to secure broadcasting deals and sponsorship agreements. Higher-ranked teams consistently attract larger audiences and stronger commercial partnerships.
For Libyan football, the decision carries significant weight. Libya's domestic league has historically produced competitive clubs but faces stiff competition for continental slots from North African neighbors. Any restructuring of CAF's allocation system could affect Libya's qualification pathways and the chances of Libyan clubs advancing to the group stages of either competition.
Egypt is Africa's most decorated club nation, with Al-Ahly holding a record 12 CAF Champions League titles and Zamalek adding five more. The EFA argues that consistent performance at the highest level warrants expanded representation, proposing a merit-based system that rewards federations based on their clubs' track records.
The EFA's submission emphasizes that nations investing heavily in infrastructure, youth academies, and professional management standards deserve proportional access. Egypt's Premier League generates some of the highest revenues in African football and has undergone significant modernization in recent years, including upgraded stadiums and improved broadcasting production.
The CAF Executive Committee vote will determine whether the expansion proceeds for the 2026/27 season. Whether the proposal passes or stalls, the debate itself signals a philosophical shift in how African football approaches competition structure and elite representation.
A final decision is expected within weeks, with clubs, federations, and fans across the continent watching closely as CAF charts its next chapter in club football governance.
— Libya Press / Sports Desk