Pitso Mosimane weighs into African Football League debate

Al Wahda coach Pitso Mosimane has joined the African Football League debate, questioning the viability of the tournament, given Europe’s disastrous attempt to form its own Super League.  

The tournament is set to begin on the 20th of October 2023, with many football fanatics waiting to see how the tournament will unfold.

The African Football League will feature eight teams, which include the reigning CAF Champions League champions Al Ahly [Egypt], Mamelodi Sundowns [South Africa], Wydad Casablanca [Morocco], Esperance [Tunisia], TP Mazembe [DR Congo], Enyimba [Nigeria], Simba [Tanzania] and Petro Atletico [Angola].

Despite the former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor questioning the viability of the much-awaited tournament, Mosimane believes the African Football League will elevate African football. 

He went on to state that it will make African football more competitive globally. However, Mosimane is very sceptical about whether the tournament will be a success. This is because the same concept failed in Europe. 

“There’s big changes and improvements since Mr Motsepe came. They have the African Football League now which failed to happen in Europe. We have to look at things positively,” said Mosimane on Abu Dhabi Sports TV. 

“This tournament increases the participation and money side of the teams in there. We have to look at which one brings in more money now, the Football League or the Champions League. Well, I am a football coach and not a politician to determine that. 

“We can say, it’s a trial and so let’s give it a chance and see how this Football League will go but why did it fail in Europe? My only challenge now is which one is the main priority: the Football League or the Champions League?” 

‘THE CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IS THE MOST DIFFICULT’ 

“The Champions League is the most difficult championship to win in Africa. You need transit from here to there but in Europe, it’s so easy. It’s a two-hour journey from France to England and good pitches too. 

“Africa has its own challenges, you go to Uganda and what pitches will you find there?” You go to Gambia and what hotels will you find there?”

“The Champions League in Africa is the most difficult and that’s why not many people can win.” 

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