AFCON 2027 qualifiers begin as Senegal and Algeria launch new campaigns

The qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has commenced, involving 48 national teams divided into 12 groups. The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

In Senegal, new head coach Patrick Vieira has begun preparations in Maputo, Mozambique, ahead of a match against the Mambas. Due to European league schedules, the squad has arrived in waves, with 15 players already participating in recovery sessions. Mozambique enters the match with a rising generation, highlighted by Sporting Lisbon midfielder Gény Catamo.

Algeria is also entering a new era under newly appointed coach Brahim Hemdani. The squad, which includes players like Amine Gouiri and Rayan Aït-Nouri, is preparing for upcoming qualifiers against Zambia and Burundi. The team is adjusting to the absence of key figures such as Riyad Mahrez.

Togo has announced its U-23 squad, led by Kader Coubadja, for their upcoming double confrontation against Libya. Other regional developments include Gabon preparing for matches against Morocco and Niger without Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, relying instead on Denis Bouanga and Guélor Kanga.