African football icon and Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala has reignited debate around hosting rights on the continent, openly criticising the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for what she described as an over-reliance on Morocco for major tournaments and awards.
Her comments have sparked fresh conversations about equity, opportunity, and leadership in African football administration.
Oshoala, one of the most decorated players in African women’s football history, did not mince words as she expressed frustration over the growing concentration of CAF activities in North Africa.
The striker, who currently plays for Saudi club Al Hilal, took to social media platform X to question why Morocco continues to dominate the hosting landscape.
“The big question here is when will this whole @CAF_Online compensation to Morocco end?” she wrote. “Awards, tournaments and all… it’s getting boring now. We need other countries to step up. Everything concerning African football happens in Morocco; it feels like that’s the new HQ.” The blunt assessment resonated widely among fans and stakeholders across the continent.
Beyond criticism, Oshoala offered a practical alternative. She argued that Nigeria has the capacity to host the Africa Cup of Nations, especially through a regional collaboration model that brings neighbouring countries into the fold. In her view, geography and shared borders make such an arrangement both realistic and achievable.
“We can co-host with our neighbours if we are serious,” she stated. Pointing to countries like Cameroon, Ghana, Benin, and Togo, Oshoala stressed that at least two of Nigeria’s neighbours could easily partner in staging the tournament, provided there is political will and infrastructural commitment.
Her comments arrive at a time when Morocco’s influence within African football is at an all-time high. The country is currently hosting the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, earning praise from CAF for its modern stadiums, efficient transport systems, and organisational efficiency.
CAF officials have repeatedly cited Morocco’s readiness and infrastructure as reasons for its frequent selection, a stance that aligns with the country’s broader ambition to become a global sporting hub.
Morocco is also set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, further cementing its standing on the international stage.
Still, Oshoala’s remarks highlight a lingering concern: whether Africa’s football growth can truly be inclusive if opportunities remain concentrated in a handful of countries. Her call is not just about hosting tournaments, but about challenging African nations, Nigeria included to invest, prepare, and demand their place at the centre of the game.
