CAF is set to introduce the world to the Africa Super League come August Photo Footy-Ghana
Africa – The Africa Super League, a daring new project, is set to commence in August this year. Announced last year by Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe, it is said to be the pinnacle of African football. But what does this mean for football in Africa and is it a good thing?
Motsepe believes the Super League can position the continent’s football in the global upper echelons by ensuring Africa’s best clubs can compete with the rest of the world. Uwais Saeed, a professional footballer who has played for KZN Academy and been called up to the SA Men’s U17 (Amajimbos), spoke about how great the Super League can be for Africa. Saeed is now playing in Portugal and feels this could be the next step for African football.
“I think the African Super League will improve and make the standard of football in Africa that much better. It is definitely exciting and something to look forward to as an African and a footballer. Having the best teams compete in one super league can surely only bring out the best in teams.
The Super League
The Super League will run alongside the existing African Champions League and the other leagues. If it keeps to its 24 team format, the Super League would feature 24 match days over a season that is already jam packed with games. African teams could experience numerous injuries just like European teams are going through now but much worse. Saeed acknowledged that players could be drained but they can get used to the long travels and fast flowing fixtures.
“I think it will definitely be tough but this is something needed in order for the improvement of the level and quality of football in our continent. Initially players will struggle but as time goes players will adapt and get used to playing so often.”
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Losing revenue could cost teams in the league
With the Super League prize money being over $11 million, more than double the prize money for winning the African Cup of Nations ($5 million), it won’t come as a surprise if teams field their weaker sides in the league. This could eventually lead to TV broadcasters offering less money to leagues which could have a significant negative impact on clubs. For Saeed, this is risky but he firmly believes the national leagues will benefit in the end.
“Initially it could cause some damage to the league. TV revenue plays a big part in the financials of a team. It could be a tough time for them but in the long term, I feel it will be beneficial to the National Leagues.”
Building up the leagues instead of focusing on the Super League
While Motsepe is convinced the Super League will be good for all involved, there are those who feel a different route should have been taken. Zaheer Ismail, Maritzburg United supporter, feels Motsepe and CAF should rather focus on the African leagues.
“It is a sad reality that a large portion of people in this country can’t name all the teams in the PSL let alone the best players. This is prevalent across Africa. We should not be creating a Super League so soon. Yes, following Europe is a good example but remember, their leagues are established and loved. Ours are not. More focus should be placed on developing our leagues before bringing everything together.”
Although the league is set to kick off in August, with the finals to be played in May 2024, much of the competition is unknown. The teams to compete in this competition haven’t been decided nor how the tournament will work. CAF has remained tight-lipped on all of these things but have promised to reveal them soon. Although much progress has been made in African football, the Super League might be CAF’s toughest challenge yet.
