Pitso Mosimane, head coach of Al Wahda, has raised questions regarding the significance of the CAF Champions League in light of the newly formed African Football League (AFL).
The AFL, which is set to start this month with eight teams, promises a staggering $4 million prize money to the winners, and $1 million for each quarter-finalist.
In an interview on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, Mosimane said: “We have to look at it positively, because it increases participation and it also increases the money side but also, which one is bigger now? Because if Super League has more money than (CAF) Champions League, so what do you focus on now? So is the (CAF) Champions League important now?”
The multiple CAF Champions League winning coach also raised concerns with the fixture congestion and the logistics of travelling, which is in addition to an already tough situation in the CAF Champions League. He said: “The European Champions League in terms of logistics it’s easy but the African Champions League is the most difficult, that’s why not many people can win it.”
The AFL is set to increase to 24 teams next season, bringing more competition and money to the African football landscape.
Mosimane concluded: “Maybe we should give it a chance and see how it goes, you can never be afraid of good things. The only challenge for me, in my opinion, is which one is the priority? Is it Champions League or Super Cup? Because Super League gives more money.”
