CAF update rules for AFCON 2021
CAF update Maximum number of substitutions and minimum number of players required to play a game in AFCON, in the case of positive covid tests
The Africa football ruling body updated the substitution rules and the minimum number of players required to play a match in the case of a covid affected team, as the much-awaited continental championship kicks off tomorrow.
In the wake of the recent covid outbreak across different teams in AFCON, the Confederation of Africa football (CAF) have made changes to the minimum number of players required to play a game in the case of a covid affected team. Changes were also made on the number of substitutions that can happen during a match.
According to the updated rules, published on CAF official website, the maximum number of substitutions that will be allowed per game in AFCON 2021 is 5.
The norm is 3 maximum substitutions, but it was changed to 5 for emergency, to prevent player injuries or fatigue as a result of compacted matches due to the covid pandemic.
The regulations, however, have been sustained as covid is still ravaging. The rule is not forced on any football bod. However, its been used in European games and it will be used in AFCON 2021.
However, each team only have a maximum of three opportunities to make substitutions during the game- to prevent disruptions. Teams can also make substitutions in half-time.
As usual, unused substitutes and opportunities can be used in the extra time in AFCON 2021.
If a match enters into extra time, each team will be given one additional substitution, as well as, one additional substitution opportunity. Teams can make substitutions before the start of the extra time and half-time of extra time.
Rules were also made in regard to a covid affected team:
A coronavirus positive player will not be authorized to play a game or even allowed to go to the stadium.
In the case where a team is covid affected, but have at least 11 players who test negative to the virus, the team will be required to play the match. If it is a goal keeper that test positive, he must be replaced by another player in the team.
However, a team that does not have up to 11 players who test negative to the virus, the team will automatically lose the match by 0-2.
If a case present a different scenario, other than the ones on this page, the organizing committee of the Africa cup of nations will take a vital decision concerning the matter.
