Exciting New Format for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is set to unveil a groundbreaking format for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place from May 13 to June 2. This new structure, referred to as a 'festival' format, will centralize matches, training sessions, and team activities at the prestigious Mohammed VI Football Complex, with the major matches scheduled to be held at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium.
The implementation of this 'festival' format aims to streamline operations, minimize travel for teams, and ensure uniform conditions throughout the tournament. With all matches, except for the opening game, semi-finals, and finals, taking place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, teams can focus more on their performance rather than logistical challenges. This initiative is intended to create a stable organizational foundation that can be replicated in future tournaments.
Competitive Groups and World Cup Qualification
On the sporting front, the draw has produced competitive groups that promise thrilling encounters. Host nation Morocco will compete in Group A alongside Tunisia, Egypt, and Ethiopia. Group B includes Ivory Coast and Cameroon, facing Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Last edition's finalist, Mali, is placed in Group C with Angola, Mozambique, and Tanzania, while the defending champion Senegal leads Group D, which also features South Africa, Algeria, and Ghana.
This tournament will also serve as a qualifying event for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar 2026. The eight teams that reach the quarter-finals will secure their places in the global competition. Additionally, the third-placed teams from each group will engage in playoff matches to vie for the last two spots, making it a total of ten African teams participating in the world finals.
As reported by sport.le360.ma.
