By Francis Tandoh
Equatorial Guinea will replace Morocco as hosts of the 2015 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, the Confederation of African Football said in a statement on Friday.
This follows a meeting held between the Head of State and President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Issa Hayatou concerning the possibility for Equatorial Guinea to host the Africa Cup of Nations Orange 2015.
The statement read: ?Following fraternal and fruitful discussions, the Head of State of Equatorial Guinea has agreed to host the tournament from January 17 to February 8, 2015.
The Executive Committee of CAF confirms that the Orange Africa Cup of Nations 2015 will be held in Equatorial Guinea on the dates agreed, and the national team of Equatorial Guinea is qualified for the final tournament as a representative of the country host. The four cities selected for the finals are Malabo, Bata, Mongomo and Ebebiyin.?
The draw for the finals, CAF stated, would take place on Wednesday, December 3, 2014 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
The statement further said: “The Executive Committee of CAF and President Issa Hayatou seize this opportunity to express their sincere thanks and deep appreciation to the people of Equatorial Guinea, its government, and particularly to His Excellency the Head of State and President of the Republic Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.”
Morocco, original host of next year?s tournament wanted it postponed over fears of possible spread of the deadly Ebola Viral Disease (EVD) that has claimed close to 5000 lives but CAF refused.
Subsequently, Africa?s football governing body stripped the North African country of the hosting rights on Tuesday and promised to find a replacement within two to three days.
CAF also disqualified Morocco from taking part in the continent?s most prestigious tournament.
Oil-rich Spanish-speaking Equatorial Guinea, one of Africa?s smallest countries with a population of a little over 600,000 co-hosted the 2012 edition of the AFCON finals with neighbors, Gabon.
