Algeria defender Aissa Mandi has welcomed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, saying the move will enhance the tournament’s prestige.

“Organising the competition every four years is a good thing. It’s better than every two years,” Mandi told a press conference on Saturday, ahead of Algeria’s Group E clash with Burkina Faso.
He added: “It will be like all the major continental tournaments, such as the Euros, and that makes sense. It’s good for African football overall.”

CAF announced that AFCON will adopt a four-year cycle starting in 2029, ahead of the 2025 tournament in Morocco. The decision has sparked debate, with critics arguing that it disregards the tradition of holding the tournament every two years since 1957.

Mali coach Tom Saintfiet was among the most vocal opponents, criticizing FIFA for the change. “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.

On the pitch, Algeria began their 2025 AFCON campaign strongly, defeating Sudan 3-0 to top Group E on three points. Burkina Faso sit second on goal difference after a late comeback secured a 2-1 win over Equatorial Guinea.