CAF Unveils Exciting Upcoming Events for 2026-27
The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) is taking significant strides in enhancing its competitions calendar, ensuring a more stable framework for Member Associations, commercial partners, and supporters throughout Africa. This commitment to a well-structured calendar showcases CAF's dedication to not only preserving its existing competitions but also expanding its offerings with new events aimed at fostering football development at both senior and youth levels.
Among the highlights of the upcoming schedule is the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027. The qualification rounds for this prestigious tournament are slated to commence in September 2026, marking an important step in the preparations for one of Africa's most celebrated football events.
In addition to the Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa will host the TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup on November 8, 2026. This match will feature the champions of the CAF Champions League, Mamelodi Sundowns, against the holders of the CAF Confederation Cup, USM Alger, at a local time of 15:00 (GMT 13:00) in Tshwane. This event promises to be a thrilling clash, showcasing the best of African club football.
Moreover, youth competitions are also receiving significant attention, with the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Ghana in February and March of next year. Furthermore, Morocco will serve as the host nation for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations in April and May. Egypt will also play a vital role by hosting the CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, which will act as the qualifier for the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
In a move that highlights CAF's commitment to women's football, there are plans to explore the establishment of a new CAF U-17 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. This tournament aims to provide a competitive pathway for young female players across the continent, further solidifying CAF's investment in women's sports.
Morocco is also set to host the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations from October 12 to 21, 2026, followed by the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal in November. These events underscore the importance of diverse football formats and competitions within the CAF framework.
At the club level, the draws for the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup for the 2026/27 season have been finalized, offering clubs a clear path forward for the continental competition. The first preliminary rounds of these tournaments are scheduled to take place from September 4 to 6, 2026, with return legs following shortly after. This clear roadmap enhances the predictability and stability of African football, enabling Member Associations to plan effectively and allowing players to navigate their competitive journeys with clarity.
This comprehensive approach to scheduling not only benefits the associations but also provides broadcasters, sponsors, and fans with greater visibility regarding CAF's major events. As CAF continues to evolve and adapt, the commitment to a well-structured competition calendar is a vital step towards fostering a thriving football environment in Africa.
As reported by cafonline.com.
