Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has criticised the decision to stage the Africa Cup of Nations every four years instead of two, saying the move was forced on Africa by FIFA and European clubs driven by financial interests.
Speaking to reporters in Rabat on Thursday, Saintfiet said he was "very shocked" and "very disappointed" by the decision, which was announced last weekend by CAF president Patrice Motsepe .
"I am very shocked by it and very disappointed. It is the pride of African football, with the best players in African football," Saintfiet said ahead of Friday's Group A match between Mali and hosts Morocco .
