Three groups of three

Congo?s chances have finally been ruled out due to administrative problems, so nine teams to battle for two slots

Nine teams will finally be involved in the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2011 – Africa Qualifier, after Congo confirmed that serious administrative problems would prevent them for taking part of the competition. What a shame for the Central African squad, since they had many expectations placed in their first participation in the Continental appointment, besides, of course, the valuable chance of getting into the big Beach Soccer showcase to happen in Ravenna next September.

That leaves a whole new competition format. The teams will be split into three groups of three, competing in a round-robin scheme. The teams best ranked in each of the groups will automatically gain access to the semifinal stage, together with the best second-ranked team of all the groups. That last four will play-off for a place into the final, and, at the same time, a ticket to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.