Cameroon players celebrate with the trophy after winning the African Cup of Nations final soccer match between Egypt and Cameroon at the Stade de l'Amitie, in Libreville, Gabon, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017. Cameroon won 2-1. (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba)Sunday Alamba/Associated Press

2019 Africa Cup of Nations Expanded to 24 Teams, Dates Changed

Rob BlanchetteJul 20, 2017

The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations is set to be held in the summer months as the tournament is expanded to involve 24 nations.

According to BBC Sport, the move will stop the competition clashing with European leagues due to scheduling issues. The Confederation of African Football confirmed the changes on Thursday.

The competition has traditionally been held in January and February, which are often busy periods in the Premier League and La Liga.

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A switch to June and July will bring the African showpiece in line with the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship. The tournament will continue to be held every two years.

Cameroon are the current holders of the title and will be the first hosts under the new format.