CAF launches eAFCON, a digital version of AFCON, partnering with Konami to expand into the African eSports market

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled eAFCON, a digital version of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, marking the organisation’s first major venture into eSports.

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CAF said the development represents a strategic expansion of its commercial portfolio and audience engagement, particularly targeting younger fans across Africa and globally.

The initiative is being implemented through a partnership with Konami, using its popular eFootball platform.

“A key new pillar of CAF’s commercial strategy has been the introduction of eAFCON,” the continental body said in a statement on Friday.

“For the first time in CAF history, the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations has entered the eGaming space.”

The digital assets generated through eAFCON will form part of CAF’s commercial assets inventory for future TotalEnergies AFCON cycles, strengthening both the organisation’s revenue base and commercial appeal.

CAF highlighted that recent tournaments have already recorded remarkable commercial growth.

Revenues from the Morocco 2025 AFCON increased by over 90 per cent compared with previous editions, driven by expanded sponsorships, wider media rights distribution, and entry into new international markets, including China, Japan, Turkey, and the European Union.

“The commercial success of the Competition has led to over 90% increase in CAF revenues for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025,” CAF stated.

The growth is attributed to retaining long-term partners such as TotalEnergies, Orange, Lonaci, 1xBet, Visa, Tecno, and Puma, while attracting new global brands.

By combining traditional football tournaments with digital gaming, CAF aims to extend its reach beyond stadiums and television screens, positioning African football as both a global sporting and commercial property.

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The organisation described eAFCON as a “significant step for the African eSports ecosystem,” reflecting a commitment to innovation and revenue diversification.