CAF, SAFF sign 5-year MoU to foster strong ties and football development

RIYADH: The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and Confederation of African Football (CAF) have signed a landmark five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster growth opportunities for African and Saudi football.

Signed by SAFF’s President Yasser Al-Misehal and CAF’s President Dr Patrice Motsepe the MoU focuses on initiatives around technical and football development at club and national team level, grassroots football, women’s football, talent identification, competitions, friendly matches and commercial opportunities.

According to a media statement issued on Saturday, the agreement between CAF and SAFF highlights the strong drive of both organizations to build on innovative and long-term initiatives aimed at raising football competitive levels and developing skills for football administrators.

Commenting on the agreement, Al-Misehal said: “This is truly a remarkable moment in our journey to further exchange knowhow and grow with the Confederation of African Football.” Both parties strive to perform better on the world stage, and provide many opportunities for men and women from all ages to progress and develop their football talent, said SAFF’s president.

Meanwhile, Dr Motsepe said: “CAF is excited to work together and partner with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to develop and grow football on our continent and globally.” There are also specific areas for mutually beneficial partnerships that we are discussing, and announcements will be made in due course, added CAF’s president.

CAF and SAFF will organize and facilitate workshops and seminars aimed at empowering match officials, both men and women, to share their knowledge.

This will also focus on the following areas: match organization,