Several parties from the Confederation Africain de Football met in 1956 to discuss the launch of a new competition between the different countries of the continent.

In the first African Cup Of Nations in 1957, there were only three participating teams: Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia. It has since expanded with almost every African nation taking part, making it necessary to hold a qualifying tournament.

The African Cup Of Nations is held every two years and has been since 1968; before that it had been held at irregular intervals.

There have been nations in the past that have dominated the African Cup Of Nations with Egypt, Ghana and Nigeria leading the way, however only Cameroon have managed to retain the title, in 2002.

So what has the African Cup Of Nations brought to world football? We now have some of the most talented players emerging from the African continent and playing for some of the biggest clubs in the world.

African players, past and present have played for England's top clubs whilst representing their nations at the highest level. To view a list of some of these players, please click here.

The 2006 African Cup Of Nations is taking place in Egypt between 20 January and 10 February 2006. Matches will be screened live on BBC and Eurosport. For further information on this tournament please direct your queries to Info@TheFA.com