VAR In, Away Goal Rule Under Review as CAF Plans Major Club Competition Changes

By Angu Lesley

Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is preparing to introduce major changes to its club competitions, with Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology set to feature in the group stages of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup this season.

The development was among the key issues discussed at CAF’s strategy conference in Cape Verde, as African football’s governing body considers ways to modernise its competitions and improve the overall match experience. The introduction of VAR is expected to provide additional support to match officials when handling crucial decisions in Africa’s leading club tournaments.

Beyond officiating, CAF’s Club Competitions Committee is also expected to review the away-goal rule, potentially reopening a debate that has shaped knockout football for decades. Traditionally, the rule gave an advantage to the team that scored more goals away from home when the aggregate score was level. Any change to its application could have significant consequences for clubs competing in continental knockout matches.

CAF will also discuss the possible introduction of Man of the Match awards during the group stages of its club competitions, a move that would give greater recognition to outstanding individual performances throughout the tournaments.

The proposed changes come as CAF continues to examine how best to improve the organisation, credibility and appeal of African club football. While VAR is set to be introduced this season, the away-goal rule remains under review, with further discussions expected before any potential changes are confirmed.

For clubs, players, coaches and supporters, the outcome of these discussions could shape the future of continental football. With VAR entering the group stages and the away-goal rule back under scrutiny, CAF’s next decisions will be closely watched across Africa.