Contrary to fears that the Cameroon might not be ready for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a visit by the CAF inspection team has revealed that the country is well advanced with preparations towards hosting the tournament.
Soka25east understands CAF officials led by Director of Competitions Ismail Wally have expressed satisfaction with country’s preparations in hosting bi-annual football showpiece.
Wally alongside other nine officials from the football governing body toured the country from 12th January up to 23rd January to examine the six host stadium shortlisted to host the 24-format of the 2019 AFCON and see if the stadias being constructed meet CAF’s regulations.
They also inspected, among many other facilities, training stadiums, hotels, security and transport details.
Though they were pleased with most of the facilities in terms of hotels and airports, the CAF team was hugely disappointed with the internet connection in the host cities.
The inspection team also reminded the hosts that each stadium must have four changing rooms, while the power of the lighting must be between 500 and 600 Lux.
The Inspection also informed the Local Organizing Committee to work on the press room of the Omnisports Stadium in Yaounde and install gadgets such as computers, a fridge and a coffee maker among others.
The CAF officials insisted to make another inspection visit in order to ascertain the country’s readiness to host the tournament.
Cameroon’s ability to host Africa’s flagship competition has been questioned on several occasions with Caf’s President Ahmad recently telling a press conference in Cote d’Ivoire that the body would look for another host if the five-time African Champions fail to meet deadlines.
Next year tournament will have 24 teams instead of 16 for the first time in history and it will be held in June and July rather than January and February.
That follows changes introduced by CAF during July 2017 symposium held in Morocco where Cameroon, as hosts, will be the defending champions having won the 2017 edition in Gabon.
