The draw for the preliminary round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers has produced several compelling regional matchups, setting the stage for intense competition as teams vie for a spot in the group stage. The tournament itself will be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in 2027, marking the first time three nations will co-host the continental showpiece.
Twelve teams, ranked among the lowest in Africa according to FIFA, will participate in this preliminary stage. Only six will advance to the group stage, joining the 42 nations already guaranteed a place in the next round of the qualifiers. The stakes are high as these teams battle for continental glory.
The preliminary round matches are scheduled to be played in a home-and-away format during the international break between March 25th and 31st. Football fans across the continent are eagerly anticipating these clashes, particularly those featuring geographically close and evenly matched teams. The regional rivalries are expected to add another layer of intensity to the already high-pressure environment.
The draw resulted in the following matchups:
- Djibouti vs. South Sudan
- Chad vs. Burundi
- Somalia vs. Mauritius
- Seychelles vs. Lesotho
- Eritrea vs. Eswatini
- Sao Tome and Principe vs. Ethiopia
This preliminary round represents a crucial opportunity for these nations to progress. For many, it is the first step towards realizing their dream of competing in the prestigious African tournament. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) oversees the qualifiers, ensuring fair play and promoting the growth of football across the continent. The road to AFCON 2027 promises to be filled with drama, excitement, and fierce competition.
