International window to allow up to four matches for national teams

National teams will have the opportunity to play up to four matches during the next FIFA international window, with countries balancing competitive 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers alongside international friendlies.

The window will run from 21 September to 6 October, giving national associations just over two weeks to prepare for and fulfil their international commitments.

Under the schedule, teams can play a maximum of four matches, although the exact number will depend on their competitive obligations and the arrangements made by their football federations.

For countries involved in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, the period will accommodate two official qualifying matches, which form part of the latest round of the continental qualification campaign.

In addition to those fixtures, teams may arrange up to two international friendlies, allowing coaches to test new players, refine tactics and build squad cohesion ahead of future competitions.

Not every nation will necessarily use the full allocation. Some teams are expected to focus exclusively on their qualifying matches, while others may schedule one or two friendlies before or after their competitive fixtures. Nations without official qualifying commitments during the window could also use the period for friendly matches.

The September-October international break is expected to be one of the busiest on the African football calendar, with dozens of teams travelling across the continent and beyond for crucial AFCON qualifying ties.

For coaches, the window offers an important opportunity to assess their squads before the qualification campaign gathers momentum, while players returning from club football will have the chance to strengthen their claims for places in their national teams.

The fixtures scheduled during the period could prove decisive for several countries as they seek to secure places at the 2027 AFCON, which will be hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.