There have been growing calls for the tournament to follow other continental events like the European Championship and the Copa America and be held every four years, partly to keep the strong interest and also not to disturb clubs during their mid-season.

But Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Hayatou said: "It is totally excluded at present. We need it in our countries' sports infrastructure.

"Four stadia were built in Ghana 2008, another four this year in Angola. These would not have happened without the CAN."

However, Hayatou has not ruled out the possibility of the tournament shifting to odd years to prevent two major global events taking place in the same year - 2010 is a prime example with the continental showpiece currently ongoing in Angola followed by the World Cup in South Africa in June.

He added: "The decision is actually pending. No decision has been taken yet. This requires a great reflection on the feasibility, particularly in terms of qualifying for major competitions."

Hayatou was full of praise for the quality on show in the current competition, adding: "At the quarter-finals, we have Algeria, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Nigeria, all countries that will represent the continent at the World Cup in South Africa later in June.

"We also have the hosts Angola, defending champions Egypt and Zambia. All are very good teams."

A strong semi-final line-up for the competition was completed last night with a west African derby taking place in one - Nigeria taking on Ghana - and a north African clash in the other with Egypt playing fierce rivals Algeria.