In adherence to the stringent regulations outlined for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, the 24 participating teams have diligently curated their provisional squads for the highly anticipated tournament.
The regulations, meticulously crafted for the pinnacle football event, dictated that each Participating Member Association (PMA) qualifying for the final tournament must submit a provisional list encompassing no more than 55 players by no later than 14 December 2023.
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In a notable departure from previous norms, the CAF Organising Committee for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations has accorded the PMAs the flexibility to finalize a squad of 27 players, an expansion from the conventional 23-player limit observed in prior tournaments.
It’s worth noting that the inclusion of the additional four players in the final list remains optional rather than obligatory.
A nuanced aspect of the regulations stipulates that if a team opts for a final squad comprising 24 to 27 players, only 23 of them will be eligible for selection in each match throughout the tournament.
This unique provision introduces a strategic element for team managers as they navigate squad selection and matchday tactics.
As the countdown to the grand event intensifies, the participating teams face the imperative of finalizing their squads by the looming deadline of 3 January 2023—precisely ten days before the opening match kicks off the football extravaganza.
Moreover, the regulations delineate a contingency plan for teams grappling with serious injuries within their final squad.
In such unfortunate circumstances, a player can only be replaced if the injury is deemed severe, and the medical certificate attesting to the injury garners approval from the CAF Medical Committee.
This provision underscores the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the competition while addressing unforeseen setbacks.
The stage is set for the footballing spectacle, with the final tournament scheduled to unfold from 13 January to 11 February 2024.
The Ivorian cities of Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro, and Yamoussoukro will play host to the tournament, promising a riveting display of skill and determination as the continent’s football elite vie for supremacy.
