News of AFCON switching to an every four years tournament has brought in some harsh reactions from a number of countries.

The switch from every two years was announced just before this year’s event began and with games now taking place, coaches have been able to voice their dissent in press conferences.

Mali’s Tom Saintfiet was extremely critical, blaming FIFA for the switch and struggles he’s encountered.

“Since 1957, Africa has organised the Cup every two years, now they say every four. It’s not fair. Africa must be respected,” he said.

His fellow Belgian at Uganda, Paul Put, took aim at FIFA: “Perhaps the problem lies in the World Cup and the Club World Cup?”

Saintfiet was in agreement, says a call by FIFA to allow European clubs to keep their players longer than expected left him without two stars.

“Two of my players got injured in the very last match with the club,” he commented.

Furthermore, an unnamed official from the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) told AFP that the decision was made by FIFA without their consultation.

They were quoted as saying: “The committee was not consulted before this decision was announced. We were surprised because it raises organizational issues that require in-depth discussions before a final decision can be made.”

Giving more balance was the coach of host country Morocco, Walid Regragui, but he can still see issues.

“There are positive aspects and others less so,” he commented. “Certainly, the biennial format has allowed many teams to progress, or to rebuild quickly after a setback.”