The draw for the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) took place this Wednesday, confirming Morocco as the host country. The Moroccan U-17 national team, the “Atlas Cubs,” has been drawn into Group A alongside Egypt, Tunisia, and Ethiopia.
Morocco heads into the competition with strong momentum after recently winning the North African Football Union (UNAF) title in Libya. The team also claimed the previous edition of the U-17 AFCON under coach Nabil Baha. For the upcoming tournament, however, Morocco will be led by Portuguese coach Tiago Pereira, marking a new chapter for the young squad.
The tournament will take place in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, featuring 16 national teams divided into four groups. As the host country, Morocco will welcome some of Africa’s top young talents competing for continental glory and qualification to the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Group stage draw
- Group A: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia
- Group B: Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Uganda, DR Congo
- Group C: Mali, Angola, Tanzania, Mozambique
- Group D: Senegal, South Africa, Algeria, Ghana
Competition format
The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals. The eight quarter-finalists will automatically qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup. An additional playoff will determine further qualification placements.
With home advantage and a talented generation of young players, Morocco will be aiming to make a strong run and defend their continental crown in front of their fans.
Read also: 2026 U17 AFCON Announces Dates, Qualified Teams