Nigerian football star Asisat Oshoala has criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for concentrating too many major tournaments and events in Morocco, and she has called for broader co‑hosting opportunities involving Nigeria and its neighbours. Her comments were made in a post on X on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Oshoala, who plays for Al Hilal in the Saudi Women’s Premier League and is a key player for Nigeria’s national team, said that Morocco seems to be hosting too many major football events, including awards and competitions, and that this trend needs to change.
“Everything concerning African football happens in Morocco; it feels like that’s the new HQ,” she wrote on social media.
She argued that other African countries should be given a chance to stage big tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Oshoala said that Nigeria could co‑host future AFCON tournaments with neighbouring countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Benin and Togo if there is enough commitment and cooperation.
“We can co‑host with our neighbours if we are serious… you can’t tell me two of these five neighbouring countries can’t co‑host AFCON,” she said.
Oshoala’s criticism comes as the 2025 AFCON is being held in Morocco, which has attracted attention because the host nation reached the final after beating Nigeria in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw. That result marked Morocco’s first AFCON final appearance in 24 years.
CAF has cited Morocco’s modern infrastructure, organisational strength and football culture as reasons for hosting major events there, including this edition of AFCON.
The country’s growing role in African football is also connected with its broader sporting development plans and future co‑hosting role in the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Oshoala’s remarks have reignited debate among fans and stakeholders about the balance of hosting rights across the continent. Many observers argue that spreading tournament hosting duties more widely would help develop football infrastructure and engagement in different regions of Africa.
Her call for co‑hosting comes amid broader discussions about investment in sports facilities, logistical capacity, and partnership among neighbouring countries to bring large events like AFCON to new venues, which could expand opportunities for fans and athletes alike.
As football communities continue to watch AFCON and other major competitions, Oshoala’s comments highlight ongoing conversations about fairness, regional representation, and growth of the sport across Africa.
