Following the decision to strip Morocco of the hosting rights for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt has launched its bid to replace it. Moroccan football authorities were deemed unfit to host the enlarged 24-team event and CGTN's Adel EL Mahrouky tells us why the Egyptians think they have what it takes.

When CAF took away Cameroon's 2019 African Cup of Nations hosting rights, Egypt honored a vow it took. The Egyptian football Association endorsed a Moroccan bid for the competition.

OSAMA ISMAIL EGYPTIAN F.A. MEDIA OFFICER "In coordination between North African Football Associations, we've agreed that Egypt won't enter the 2019 AFCON until we wait for Morocco's final decision. Now that it decided to quit it possible bid, Egypt is proudly stepping in to save the situation."

Infrastructure and readiness in hosting facilities are not a concern here. Egypt has at least 15 stadiums up to standard and has the experience from the last time it hosted the event in 2006.

MOHAMED FAWZY MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS SPOKESMAN "The Egypt government is greatly interested in hosting the competition and is committed to present it in the best possible way. Egypt has an immense sports infrastructure which is at international standards and is distributed in several governorships. We're hopeful to revive these stadiums with fans and hosting may bring Egypt another African title."

But the country hasn't been engaging with massive numbers of fans lately. Since 2012 a fans ban has kept stadiums empty, with exception to occasional international games.

OSAMA ISMAIL EGYPTIAN F.A. MEDIA OFFICER "Egypt has no general problem with fans in stadiums. Our only security reservation are for fans of premier league clubs, two rival fans in that competition could be a problem. On the other hand, we've hosted more than 80 thousand fans in international matches without a single problem reported. There aren't any concerns regarding the African Cup of Nations."

ADEL EL MAHROUKY CAIRO "Hosting the first 24 team African Cup of Nations will be a great addition to Egypt's list of international competitions has hosted. It'll also give weight to its file if it enters the bid for the 2030 World Cup. Adel EL Mahrouky, CGTN, CAIRO."