Thrilling race: 14 nations clinch powerful spots at U17 AFCON 2027

Fourteen nations have secured their places at the 2027 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving just two slots still to be decided before the continental finals line-up is complete.

The qualification picture for the tournament is now largely settled, highlighting the growing competitive balance and geographical spread within African youth football.

Traditional heavyweights sit alongside emerging forces from across the continent, underlining the depth of talent at under-17 level.

Among the countries already assured of participation are established names such as Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast and Ghana.

They are joined by strong representatives from Central and Southern Africa, including Cameroon, DR Congo, South Africa and Angola.

East Africa will have a notable presence at the finals, with Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia all progressing through qualification.

Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique have confirmed their steady rise in youth competitions by booking their places at the tournament.

The composition of the current field reflects the strengthening of regional development programmes and the increasing competitiveness of youth structures across Africa.

With nations from West, Central, East and Southern Africa already confirmed, the finals promise a diverse and compelling contest.

Attention now turns to North Africa, where the final two berths remain undecided.

Those places will be allocated following the qualifying tournament organised by the North African Football Union (UNAF).

Once those representatives are determined, the full complement of 16 teams will be known.

The race to succeed the current continental champions is already gathering momentum, with each qualified side aiming to showcase the next generation of African talent.

When the final two spots are filled, the stage will be set for what is expected to be a fiercely contested and potentially spectacular 2027 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations.