Algeria headline Group I in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

The draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers has thrown up an intriguing contest in Group I, with continental giants Algeria set to face Zambia, Togo and Burundi in the race for qualification to AFCON 2027.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, in what promises to be a landmark edition of Africa’s biggest football competition.

Algeria enter the qualifiers as favourites to top the group, boasting one of the most experienced and technically gifted squads on the continent. The Desert Foxes remain among Africa’s elite football nations and will be determined to secure a swift return to continental dominance after mixed fortunes in recent AFCON tournaments.

With a squad packed with European-based talent and players competing at the highest level, Algeria are expected to approach the campaign with confidence. Their attacking strength, tactical quality, and big-match experience make them the standout side in Group I.

However, Zambia are widely viewed as the biggest threat to Algeria’s ambitions. The Chipolopolo continue to rebuild into a competitive force and possess a blend of youthful energy and experienced campaigners capable of troubling any opposition. Zambia’s football history, including their memorable 2012 AFCON triumph, ensures they will not be intimidated by the challenge ahead.

Togo also remain a dangerous side despite recent inconsistency on the continental stage. The Sparrowhawks have shown flashes of quality and will be hoping to rediscover their best form during the qualification series. Their physical approach and determination could make them difficult opponents, especially in home fixtures where conditions often prove challenging for visiting teams.

Burundi, meanwhile, will look to embrace the underdog role as they seek another historic AFCON qualification. The East African side has steadily improved in recent years and continues to develop a competitive squad capable of causing surprises. Their resilience and fighting spirit could prove crucial in what is expected to be a tightly contested group.

The AFCON 2027 qualifiers are already generating excitement across the continent as nations begin their journey toward the finals in East Africa. Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are preparing to host the tournament for the first time together, a move widely seen as a major boost for football development and infrastructure across the region.

Group I, in particular, is expected to provide plenty of drama, with Algeria carrying the favourites tag while Zambia, Togo, and Burundi all aim to upset the odds and secure qualification to the prestigious tournament.

With national pride, continental ambition, and a place at AFCON 2027 on the line, the battle in Group I promises to be fiercely competitive from the very first matchday.

CAF has also condensed the qualification schedule because of the short period before the finals, which are scheduled to run from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Matchdays one and two will be played between September 21 and October 6, 2026, while matchdays three and four are set for November 9 to 17, 2026. The final two rounds of qualifiers will take place from March 22 to 30, 2027.