The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the draw for the playoff stage of the 2024 Championship of African Nations (CHAN), despite controversy surrounding the inclusion of seven teams that withdrew from the initial qualifiers, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Algeria has been granted a bye into the second round of the playoffs, while Comoros, Malawi, The Gambia, South Africa, Egypt, and Gabon will compete in the first round.
The first-leg matches of the first round are scheduled to take place between 28 February and 2 March, with the return leg set for the following week.
The second round of the playoffs is slated for May 2025.
The inclusion of the seven teams that withdrew from the initial qualifiers has raised eyebrows, with some questioning the fairness of the decision.
CAF has yet to comment on the controversy surrounding the draw.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun