Africa: All You Need to Know About the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026

Africa's next generation of football stars will once again step into the spotlight when the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 kicks off on 13 May and runs until 02 June 2026.

The competition brings together 16 of the continent's finest youth national teams in what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in the history of the tournament.

Morocco hosts the continental showpiece as defending champions after lifting the title in 2025, and the North Africans will now attempt to become the first side in recent history to successfully defend the trophy on home soil.

Beyond continental glory, the stakes are even higher this year as 10 African nations will qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026, turning every group-stage match into a high-pressure battle for a global ticket.

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CAF has also introduced a new "festival-style" concept for the tournament, centralising matches, training facilities and team operations at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat to create a unique environment focused on player development and operational excellence.

The competition is expected to showcase some of Africa's brightest young football talent, with scouts from major clubs around the world closely monitoring the performances of players tipped to become future international stars.

Fans across Africa and beyond will be able to watch every moment of the competition live on CAF TV via YouTube, while more than 20 international broadcasters, including beIN Sports, SuperSport, Canal+, Azam TV and SABC Sport, will also carry the matches to millions of viewers worldwide.

Key facts about the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON Morocco 2026

The tournament is the 16th edition of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

Including earlier formats, it is regarded as the 21st edition overall.

The country also enters the tournament as defending champions after winning the 2025 edition.

The competition takes place from 13 May to 02 June 2026.

Rabat serves as the central host city for the tournament.

Most matches will be played at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

The opening match, semi-finals and final will be staged at major stadium venues in Morocco.

CAF is introducing a new festival-style structure for youth competitions.

Teams, training sessions and matches are integrated into one central environment.

The concept is designed to improve logistics, create a vibrant football atmosphere and enhance long-term player development.

Sixteen national teams are participating in the finals.

The tournament also serves as Africa's qualifying competition for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.

Ten African nations will qualify for the World Cup.

The eight quarter-finalists automatically book their places.

The four third-placed teams will contest play-off matches for the remaining two spots.

Teams expected to challenge for the title