South Africa Withdraws from Futsal AFCON Over Western Sahara Dispute

17 January 2020 – byBladi.net · 1 min read

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is withdrawing from the 2020 AFCON futsal, scheduled to be held from January 28 to February 7 in Laâyoune. More than a political decision, South Africa, although qualified, wants to boycott the competition because of the Sahara.

Less than 15 days before the start of the 2020 AFCON futsal, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced the withdrawal of its team from the competition. "This is a political decision that will not please Morocco at all, the host country of the tournament".

SAFA "has decided to forfeit [...], as Morocco persists in organizing the tournament in Laâyoune, which is located in the disputed Western Sahara". "Aware of the risk of a fine imposed by CAF, and other repercussions following our decision," South Africa remains firm on its decision.

With the withdrawal of South Africa, group A of the competition is left with only 3 teams (Morocco, Libya and Equatorial Guinea). According to the same source, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should decide to call up Mauritius, eliminated by South Africa during the qualifications.

Group A: Morocco, Libya, Equatorial Guinea.
Group B: Egypt, Guinea, Angola, Mozambique.

Category: Sport

Keywords:

Football South Africa Laayoune Western Sahara