Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele has hit out at FIFA’s player-release policy for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), warning that the ruling undermines African teams’ ability to prepare properly — and places South Africa at a disadvantage ahead of both AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FIFA has ruled that European clubs only need to release players from 15 January, a mere six days before AFCON 2025 kicks off, leaving several African nations — including South Africa — unable to assemble full squads in time for meaningful preparation.
“Totally unfair… FIFA must introspect”
Mkhalele did not hold back in his criticism, calling for urgent reform.
“It’s totally unfair and unacceptable. You start to feel that African football is not taken as seriously as European football,” he said.
“CAF needs to make their point to FIFA because it can’t continue like this.”
He argued that the ruling compromises preparations for both AFCON and the World Cup, especially now that the 2026 edition will be staged across three countries and involve 48 teams competing in different climates and altitudes.
Focus shifts to AFCON — but challenges pile up
Bafana Bafana open their AFCON campaign against Angola on 22 December as they look to build on their impressive third-place finish at the last tournament. Despite the challenges, Mkhalele says Friday’s World Cup draw — which placed South Africa in Group A with Mexico, South Korea and the UEFA Playoff D winner — has brought clarity.
“With the draw done and dusted, we can fully focus on our AFCON preparations.
Knowing where we play helps, even as we start looking at what will be required for the World Cup.”
But he stressed that the scheduling of AFCON so close to the World Cup remains problematic.
“On one hand it’s good, but on the other it’s a disadvantage — especially in this new format with teams playing in different altitudes. It’s difficult for African teams to plan.”
Call for stronger CAF involvement
Mkhalele insists CAF must take a firmer stance in FIFA discussions, particularly regarding competition timing and release regulations.
“CAF needs to be involved in everything. FIFA must find a balance so that everyone competes on the same level.”
South Africa now continue their AFCON preparations knowing they may only receive some key Europe-based players days before the tournament begins.