The African Football Confederation (CAF) announced the creation of a new international tournament only for players participating in their country's local league. CAF president Issa Hayatou said that the competition is intended to give a chance to local African players a chance to play at higher level. "We have decided to create a new competition that will showcase the best national teams of Africa, exclusively featuring players who are active in the national championships and qualified to play the ongoing season," the CAF chief said. "We strive to give to the local African players the possibility to showcase their talents and abilities, but also to bring to a higher level the national championships in Africa, and to boost their importance." The competition, which will feature eight teams, will be staged every two years alternating with the African Nations Cup. The qualifying phase will take place every even year, starting from 2008, and the final every odd year.