Two matches at the start of the CAF group phase – Egypt-Mozambique and Libya-Cameroon – are to be played behind closed doors due to unrest in both host nations. FIFA is also attempting to make arrangements for the Mali-Algeria match.

Egypt’s Group G match will be played in Alexandria on FRI 01 JUN 2012, and Libya’s match in Group I on SUN 10 JUN 2012 has been moved to the neutral venue of Sfax, Tunisia. According to FIFA, local authorities in both nations decided to play the matches without spectators in the stadiums, as the security situations remain fragile after last year’s Arab Spring revolts.

Meanwhile, arrangements have not yet been made for Mali’s Group H match with Algeria. Recent violence in Mali means that match could also be moved to neutral ground.