CAF adopts format for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier as Exco fix date for CAN 2023 draws
The new format has been adapted in line with FIFA’s expanded FIFA World Cup format and will involve all the 54 Member Associations of CAF which will be divided into nine (9) Groups
By Olusola Adebayo
The Executive Committee (“EXCO”) of the most CAF on Thursday held a meeting, chaired by President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, in Algiers.
EXCO was updated about the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) between CAF and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (“SAFF”) and is excited about the huge potential of the mutual benefits between the parties.
The Executive Committee noted the progress that is being made in Cote d’Ivoire in preparations for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (“CAN”) Côte d’Ivoire 2023.
President Motsepe expressed his gratitude to the Côte d’Ivoire President Alassane Ouattara and Prime Minister Patrick Achi for their cooperation and commitment to ensuring that the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 is world-class.
The EXCO announced that the Official Draw of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 will be conducted on Thursday, 12 October 2023.
On the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, the Executive Committee approved the format, and dates of the Qualifiers.
The new format has been adapted in line with FIFA’s expanded FIFA World Cup format and will involve all the 54 Member Associations of CAF who will be divided into nine (9) Groups.
Winners of each Group will automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The four best runners-up (from the Groups) will play in a CAF Play-Off tournament.
The winner (CAF Play-Off tournament) will play in the FIFA Play-off Tournament
