The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the details for the qualification draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The announcement outlines the process and format for teams vying for a spot in the prestigious tournament.
A preliminary round draw will be held in Rabat, Morocco. This draw sets the stage for the qualifying campaign.
Preliminary Round Involves 12 Teams
According to CAF, the preliminary round will feature 12 of the lowest-ranked national teams, based on the latest FIFA rankings. These teams will compete for six slots to advance to the group stage.
42 Teams Advance Directly to Group Stage
Forty-two national teams have already secured their place in the group stage, based on their continental and international rankings. This ensures a competitive field from the outset.
Group Stage Format: 48 Teams Divided into 12 Groups
Following the preliminary round, the 48 qualified teams will be divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group will then qualify for the final tournament. This structure promises intense competition and exciting matches throughout the qualification process.
The road to AFCON 2027 promises to be a challenging one. The new format aims to enhance competition and provide opportunities for emerging teams to showcase their talent on the continental stage. With the tournament being co-hosted by three nations for the first time, AFCON 2027 is already generating significant excitement and anticipation among football fans across Africa.
