Africa Cup of Nations

The Africa Cup of Nations, also referred to as the African Nations Cup (ANC) is the main international association football competition in Africa and is sanctioned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The Africa Cup of Nations was first held in 1957. Like the Copa América in South America, the ANC has been held every two years since 1968.

[edit] History

The first ANC took place in Sudan, with only four teams participating: Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia and South Africa. South Africa were to compete, but were disqualified due to the apartheid policies of the government then in power. The number of participants in the final tournament reached eight in 1963, 12 in 1992 and 16 in 1996. Since then, the format has been unchanged, with the sixteen teams being drawn into four groups of four teams each, with the top two teams of each group advancing to a "knock-out" stage. In 2000, the tournament was held in two countries fort he first time. Ghana and Nigeria were the hosts. Record winner of the ANC is Egypt with five successes. Other champions are Ghana, Cameroon (four wins), D.R. Congo (former Zaire), Nigeria (two wins), Ethiopia, Algerien, Congo-Brazzaville, Cote d’Ivoire, Morocco, South Africa, Sudan, Tunisia (one win).

[edit] Africa Cup of Nations 2008

The 26th ANC is held from January 20 to February 10 2008. Ghana is the host for the fourth time, matches are held in four different cities: the capital Accra, Kumasi, Sekondi-Takoradi and Tamale. The ANC-champion qualifies for the 2009 Confed-Cup, which will take place in South Africa.

[edit] Weblinks

• Official Website of the Africa Cup of Nations 2008 in Ghana
• Official Website of the Confederation of African Football

Created by: Premier League