Cairo:The race for qualification in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) PAMOJA 2027 heats up this week, with 48 matches scheduled between November 12 and 17, 2026. This phase of the qualifiers sees numerous African football powerhouses, such as Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Mali, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sudan, competing in crucial double-header fixtures.

According to Confederation of African Football, the matches are pivotal as they mark the halfway point in the qualifiers, with teams striving to secure a spot in the tournament. Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia, both holding perfect records in Group C, are set for a decisive clash. Meanwhile, Ghana faces a critical double-header against Somalia, where further dropped points could jeopardize their chances of reaching the finals.

In Group K, Mali and Rwanda, both unbeaten, will face off in Bamako and Kigali. Group J sees Senegal and Sudan competing closely, with Mozambique also in contention as they meet Ethiopia. The qualifiers are crucial for Cabo Verde, looking to build on their FIFA World Cup debut, as they play Liberia. Morocco, aiming to maintain a perfect start, will take on Niger in Group A.

The qualifiers will conclude with the final rounds in March 2027, leading up to the main event from June 19 to July 17, 2027, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The tournament marks a historic first for three countries jointly hosting the competition.