Challenges like player fatigue and scheduling conflicts cause African Football League to stall

Jessica Motaung, deputy chairperson of the Africa Clubs Association, has shared crucial insights into the suspension of the much-anticipated African Football League (AFL).

Initially launched with an ambitious vision in 2023, the league’s inaugural edition featured eight teams and culminated in a celebratory victory for Mamelodi Sundowns under the leadership of Rulani Mokwena.

However, excitement soon dwindled as the tournament had not resumed since its debut.

During a radio interview this week, Motaung acknowledged the potential of the AFL, while concurrently recognising its current impracticality.

“I think it’s a lot of factors; currently, it’s on hold, and again, I think it’s building strong leagues first before you start having an elite league. It didn’t even work in Europe, so we need to look at why it didn’t work in Europe,” she explained.

“The scheduling of tournaments, player fatigue, and the impact on domestic leagues are major considerations,” she noted.

The deputy chairperson highlighted the burden placed on players, revealing the fatigue experienced by those participating in oversized seasons filled with numerous competitions, such as the recent Club World Cup.

“Players are exhausted; they are playing a lot of games,” she stated, highlighting the need for a review of the football calendar in Africa.

Motaung also raised concerns about the sustainability of domestic leagues, suggesting that without strengthening these core structures, establishing an elite league would be counterproductive.

“How is it going to affect the PSL? That’s why it became a one-month event rather than a league that’s happening all the time,” she questioned, alluding to the need for careful planning around the league’s integration.

Reflecting on the AFL pilot phase, Motaung expressed a desire to analyse its performance thoroughly.

“We must sit down and look at how that pilot worked and whether it’s something that CAF can replicate again. Right now, it’s about building the clubs and ensuring they are sustainable,” she affirmed.

In a bid to foster the development of African football, Motaung revealed the association’s plans to partner with FIFA through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

This collaboration will aim to improve funding and resources to enhance African clubs and their financial sustainability. “Clubs are the foundation of the game,” she asserted, reminding stakeholders of their pivotal role.

Recognising the diverse structural challenges faced by clubs across the continent, Motaung identified the potential success of independent leagues, citing both South Africa and North Africa as case studies.

“The key part for me is how do we start helping and how do I use my experience from Chiefs and the league to start building stronger leagues on the continent,” she said.

“The call for vital clubs and leagues that can hold their own on a global stage reflects the ambition shared by many African football stakeholders.

As the future of the African Football League hangs in the balance, Motaung’s insights shed light on the complexities of football on the continent.

Her commitment to nurturing sustainable clubs and leagues could shape the future of African football for years to come.