African teams will face an intense and compressed route to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after the Confederation of African Football confirmed an unprecedented qualifying schedule for the tournament to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
CAF has formally begun the countdown to the 36th edition of the continental finals, outlining a group-stage qualifying campaign that will be decided over just three months.
All 48 nations involved will contest their places for East Africa in a format described as a decisive sprint rather than a prolonged campaign.
The most notable feature of the schedule is an extended international window running from 21 September to 6 October 2026. Over a demanding 15-day period, national teams will be required to play their first four qualifying matches.
With 12 points available in less than three weeks, the balance of power across African football could be reshaped early in the process.
The pace of the opening phase is expected to place significant strain on squads and coaching staff alike.
Teams will be challenged to manage recovery, travel and preparation, particularly for players based in Europe who will be required to shuttle between club and international duties.
The ability to rotate effectively and maintain performance levels across four matches in quick succession is likely to prove decisive.
This accelerated opening block will offer little margin for error, both for established contenders and for nations seeking to break new ground.
The schedule is expected to favour teams with greater depth, as fatigue and logistical demands accumulate across the continent.
Following the initial surge of fixtures, the qualifying campaign will reach its conclusion during a second and final international window from 9 to 17 November 2026.
Matchdays five and six will determine which nations secure qualification for the finals, alongside the three host countries.
With qualification at stake, the closing fixtures are expected to heighten tension, as every goal and every point takes on increased importance.
CAF’s approach represents a significant departure from previous qualification formats, prioritising intensity and clarity over a prolonged timeline.
While the condensed calendar promises high drama for supporters, it also presents a major physical and organisational challenge for players and federations.
As September 2026 approaches, anticipation is building across the continent. From West Africa to Southern Africa, teams are preparing for a qualification race that will demand resilience, depth and consistency.
The road to East Africa may be short, but it is set to be fiercely contested.
Key qualifying dates
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Matchdays 1, 2, 3 and 4: 21 September – 6 October 2026
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Matchdays 5 and 6: 9 – 17 November 2026
