Afcon in December? Tournament Timing Sparks Outrage.

The Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) begins Sunday in Morocco, but its schedule has caused major controversy. For the first time since the tournament started in 1957, it will be played over the Christmas and New Year period. This timing has created anger across African football. Critics blame FIFA, world football's governing body, for poor planning. They say FIFA's lack of concern for Afcon, a key source of revenue for African football, has led to inadequate preparation time. Despite the dispute, excitement is high. Host nation Morocco plays Comoros in the opener in Rabat. Football is hugely popular in Africa, where 60% of the 1.5 billion population is under 25. Morocco aims to win its first Afcon title in 50 years. Matches will be held in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, and Fez.