Eric Chelle backs two-year Africa Cup of Nations cycle as ‘perfect’ for development

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says returning the Africa Cup of Nations to a two-year cycle would be “perfect” for the development of African football.

The Confederation of African Football had previously announced plans to stage the continental tournament every four years. However, CAF president Patrice Motsepe has since indicated that the decision could be reviewed, potentially restoring the competition’s traditional two-year format.

Chelle, who coached Mali at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before taking charge of Nigeria at the 2025 edition, believes more regular tournaments would create greater opportunities for African nations to progress.

Chelle wants more high-level matches before World Cup

The Franco-Malian coach said playing in major international competitions more frequently would help African teams develop their players and improve their preparation for global tournaments.

He also highlighted the value of facing strong opposition before a World Cup. Chelle believes a two-year Africa Cup of Nations cycle would provide African countries with more competitive matches and valuable experience at international level.

His comments come after he led Nigeria to a disappointing 3-0 defeat by Guinea-Bissau last month.

Chelle also argued that staging the tournament more often could bring economic benefits to host countries. In his view, regular editions of the competition could attract visitors and create additional commercial opportunities across the continent.

Nigeria are currently struggling to qualify for the next edition, which is due to be held in East Africa. The Super Eagles have not won the Africa Cup of Nations since their 2013 triumph under the late Stephen Keshi.

Five different nations have won the competition since Nigeria’s last title. During that period, Ivory Coast are the only team to have secured the trophy twice.

Senegal would also have won the tournament twice over the past 13 years, but their victory at AFCON 2025 was overturned and the title was awarded to Morocco.