CAF Draws Groups for 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations

The Confederation of African Football conducted the draw for the 2026 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday at its headquarters in Cairo, setting the stage for the continental youth tournament hosted by Morocco from May 13 to June 2. The event will feature 16 teams vying for the title and qualification spots to the expanded 2026 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Morocco, as hosts, landed in Group A alongside regional rivals Egypt and Tunisia, as well as Ethiopia. The Atlas Cubs enter with recent success, having won the previous edition of the tournament and the North African Football Union title. Under new Portuguese coach Tiago Pereira, the team aims to leverage home advantage and a talented squad to defend their crown.

Group B shapes up as a powerhouse clash, with former champions Côte d'Ivoire and Cameroon joined by Uganda and debutants Democratic Republic of Congo. In Group C, Mali faces Angola, Mozambique, and Tanzania in a mix of West and Southern African sides. Group D promises intense competition, pitting 2023 winners Senegal against Algeria, South Africa, and Ghana. Ghana's Black Starlets, returning after an eight-year absence, boast a storied record with two...