The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday concluded the official draw for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), setting the stage for an exciting continental showdown.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 13 to June 2, 2026, with host nation Morocco leading Group A. They will compete alongside Ethiopia, Egypt, and Tunisia.
Group B features former champions Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon, who will battle Uganda and debutants DR Congo for qualification.
In Group C, Mali will face Angola, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
Group D comprises defending champions Senegal, alongside South Africa, Algeria, and Ghana.
According to CAF, only the top two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals of the competition.
Meanwhile, Nigeria will miss out on the tournament for the second consecutive edition, marking a notable absence for one of Africa’s traditionally strong youth football nations.
Full Groupings:
- Group A: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia
- Group B: Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, DR Congo
- Group C: Mali, Angola, Tanzania, Mozambique
- Group D: Senegal, South Africa, Algeria, Ghana
The 2026 edition is expected to showcase emerging football talents across Africa as teams battle for continental glory.
