The race for the quarter-finals of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 reaches its decisive stage this week, with all four groups still carrying major storylines ahead of the final round of matches.
After two rounds, Tanzania and Côte d’Ivoire have made the strongest statements, while hosts Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Ghana, Cameroon and Uganda still have important work to do.
The tournament also serves as Africa’s qualifying pathway to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026, with the eight quarter-finalists booking automatic tickets and the third-placed teams entering play-offs for the final two slots.
In Group A, Morocco and Egypt are level on four points and will meet in a direct battle for top spot. Both sides are unbeaten, but the hosts will be under pressure to finish strongly in front of home supporters. Tunisia and Ethiopia, both on one point, also meet knowing victory could keep their World Cup hopes alive through the third-place route.
Group B is led by Côte d’Ivoire, who have six points from two matches and are already in control after wins over Cameroon and DR Congo. The Young Elephants face Uganda, who have three points and still need a result to strengthen their knockout hopes. Cameroon, also on three points, face DR Congo and will expect to finish the job against a side still searching for their first point.
Group C has been dominated by Tanzania, who have six points, six goals scored and none conceded after back-to-back 3-0 victories. Their meeting with Mali will be a major test of their title credentials, while Mali, on two points, need a positive result to avoid danger. Angola and Mozambique, both still chasing their first win, meet in a match that could prove crucial for third-place qualification hopes.
Group D remains the most delicate section. Algeria lead with four points and face Senegal, who have three points after one win and one defeat. South Africa, also on three points, take on Ghana, who sit bottom with one point and must win to keep realistic hopes of progression alive.
With qualification, pride and World Cup places all at stake, the final round promises to deliver the most dramatic stage of the group phase.
Final group fixtures – local time
Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Group A
- Morocco vs Egypt – 20h00 – CMVI T8
- Tunisia vs Ethiopia – 20h00 – CMVI T11
Group B
- Côte d’Ivoire vs Uganda – 17h00 – CMVI T11
- Cameroon vs DR Congo – 17h00 – CMVI T3
Wednesday, 20 May 2026
Group C
- Mali vs Tanzania – 17h00 – CMVI T8
- Angola vs Mozambique – 17h00 – CMVI T11
Group D
- Senegal vs Algeria – 20h00 – CMVI T11
- South Africa vs Ghana – 20h00 – CMVI T3
SOURCE: CAF ONLINE
