“The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are set to commence on 13 November 2023,” stated the CAF after a meeting in Algiers on Thursday.
In line with FIFA’s expanded World Cup format, CAF has introduced a new format that will involve all 54 Member Associations in Africa. The approved expansion grants Africa nine guaranteed spots, with a chance for a 10th place through a playoff.
While the qualifying groups for the 54-member countries have yet to be determined, CAF has released the schedule for the matches. “The Executive Committee has approved the format and dates for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers,” announced CAF. “The new format aligns with FIFA’s expanded World Cup format and will feature nine groups comprising all 54 Member Associations of CAF. The winners of each group will secure automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Additionally, the four best runners-up from the groups will compete in the CAF Play-Off tournament, with the winner advancing to the FIFA Play-off Tournament.”
CAF also revealed that the official draw for the qualifiers will take place on 12 July 2023 in Cotonou, Benin.
In the previous tournament held in Qatar and won by Argentina, Nigeria’s Super Eagles failed to qualify.
Premium Times
