Equatorial Guinea to host 2015 AFCON

Equatorial Guinea will replace Morocco as hosts of the 2015 African Nations Cup finals, the Confederation of African Football said in a statement on Friday.

Morocco wanted the tournament postponed over fears of a spread of the deadly Ebola virus but CAF refused and on Tuesday stripped the north African country of the hosting rights.

A statement from the continent's football governing body read: "The Executive Committee of CAF confirms that the Orange Africa Cup of Nations 2015 will be held in Equatorial Guinea on the dates agreed, and the national team of Equatorial Guinea is qualified for the final tournament as a representative of the country host.

"The four cities selected for the finals are Malabo, Bata, Mongomo and Ebebiyin. The draw for the finals will take place Wednesday, December 3, 2014 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea."

It added: "The Executive Committee of CAF and President Issa Hayatou seize this opportunity to express their sincere thanks and deep appreciation to the people of Equatorial Guinea, its government, and particularly to His Excellency the Head of State and President of the Republic Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo."

Oil-rich Spanish-speaking Equatorial Guinea hosted the 2012 finals with neighbours Gabon.

The tournament will take place from January 17-February 8, 2015.