Morocco U20 drawn with Algeria, Tunisia and Egypt in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Morocco’s Under-20 side have been drawn against North African rivals Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt and Libya in the regional qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The tournament in Egypt will determine which teams from the region progress to the continental finals in Ghana, with qualification also offering a route to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup.

The draw, held in Cairo on Wednesday, has given the Atlas Cubs a demanding schedule as they attempt to secure a place at both major tournaments.

Atlas Cubs begin campaign against Tunisia

Morocco will open their qualifying campaign against Tunisia on 27 September at the Suez Canal Stadium.

They will then face Algeria three days later at the same venue, setting up an early North African derby with points potentially crucial to their qualification hopes.

The Atlas Cubs will take on hosts Egypt on 3 October before completing their group campaign against Libya on 6 October at Ismailia Stadium.

Four matches in 10 days

Morocco face a packed schedule, with all four matches to be played within a 10-day period.

That leaves little room for dropped points and will test the squad’s consistency, fitness and ability to manage the demands of a short qualifying tournament.

The regional competition will decide which North African nations advance to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be staged in Ghana.

World Cup place adds importance

For Morocco, the campaign carries significance beyond qualification for the continental tournament.

A strong performance in the AFCON qualifiers could also keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 FIFA U20 World Cup alive.

The Atlas Cubs will therefore be aiming to navigate a difficult group successfully and secure their place among Africa’s leading Under-20 sides.