20, July 2017
2019 Africa Cup of Nations: Cameroon reaffirms readiness to host despite concerns 0
Cameroon’s Sports Minister has said that the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations will go ahead in the country despite concerns over the pace of preparations. Recent reports suggest that stadium construction is behind schedule while Cameroon also faces economic problems.
“Despite security concerns, social and economic crises, the government and President Paul Biya are totally engaged to do everything for the Nations Cup to go ahead,” said Ismael Bidoung. In the wake of concerns aired about Cameroon’s readiness, North African nations Algeria and Morocco have recently put themselves forward as back-up options for the finals.
Bidoung said that group games will take place in five cities, with Limbe having been added to the four venues mentioned in Cameroon’s original bid: Bafoussam, Douala, Garoua and the capital Yaounde. However, more venues are needed for the teams’ training – some of which were already used when Cameroon hosted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations last year.
“Of the 32 stadia required for the 2019 Nations Cup, the 11 that served for the 2016 Women Africa Cup of Nations are ready and functional,” said Bidoung. “For the 21 other stadia, 14 are under rehabilitation and 7 are still to be constructed.” Cameroon are the reigning African champions, having beaten Egypt in February’s final in Gabon.
Source: Vanguard
23, July 2017
Will Cameroon be ready to host a bigger Africa Cup of Nations? 0
We reported earlier about the decision by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) to expand the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) from 16 to 24 teams and moving the competition to June/July.
Implementing the changes for the next tournament, less than two years away, heaps more pressure on the hosts of Afcon 2019 Cameroon.
Caf say they’ll go on an inspection tour in September to check on progress, with the country already facing questions over its preparations. The 50% increase in participants intensifies that.
Cameroon sports minister Ismael Bidoung told Reuters news agency:
I would like to reassure the national and international opinion that the government is fully committed to fulfilling the Caf’s specifications and to date, no Caf mission has reported any delay in preparations.”
Meanwhile Morocco have made it clear they would be prepared to step in if needed.
Source: BBC