The line-up for the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations 2026 is taking shape, with Morocco, Egypt and Algeria officially securing qualification through the regional North African competition.
The trio confirmed their places following the conclusion of the North African qualifiers, which determined representatives from the region for the continental tournament scheduled to run from 25 April to 15 May 2026 in Morocco.
Algeria seal qualification in decisive final round
Algeria’s progression was confirmed in the final round of qualifiers after a narrow victory over Egypt. The result ensured their place among the teams heading to the continental competition, completing the North African contingent alongside Morocco and Egypt.
The qualification campaign underlined Algeria’s ability to deliver results under pressure, with the decisive win coming at a critical stage of the competition.
Morocco and Egypt had already secured their qualification earlier in the tournament, ensuring that all three nations would represent North Africa at the upcoming finals.
Tournament to feature 16 teams
The 2026 edition of the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations will bring together 16 teams from across the continent. Morocco, as hosts, will stage the tournament, providing a platform for Africa’s emerging football talent to compete at the highest youth level.
The competition is expected to showcase a wide geographical spread of teams, reflecting the growing depth and competitiveness of youth football across Africa.
Full list of qualified teams
Alongside Morocco, Egypt and Algeria, several other nations have confirmed their participation in the tournament. These include:
- Angola
- Cameroon
- Ivory Coast
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Guinea-Bissau
- Mozambique
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
The final roster reflects a mix of established footballing nations and emerging teams, highlighting the diversity of talent across the continent.
North Africa’s strong representation
The qualification of Morocco, Egypt and Algeria ensures a strong North African presence at the tournament. All three sides demonstrated consistency during the regional qualifiers, earning their places through competitive performances.
Morocco, in particular, will enter the tournament with the added advantage of playing on home soil, while Egypt and Algeria will aim to build on their qualification campaigns and challenge for continental honours.
Stage set for continental showcase
With the majority of teams now confirmed, attention turns to preparations for the tournament in Morocco. The Africa U-17 Cup of Nations remains a key platform for identifying future stars, and the 2026 edition is expected to deliver another competitive and closely contested event.
