The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a new format for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The new format will see the 54 member associations divided into nine groups of six teams each.
The winners of each group will automatically qualify for the World Cup, while the four best runners-up will participate in a playoff tournament to determine the final African qualifier.
The qualifiers will begin in November 2023 and will conclude in October 2026. The draw for the qualifiers will be held on July 12, 2023 in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
The new format is a significant change from the previous format, which saw five African teams qualify for the World Cup.
The increase in the number of African qualifiers is a result of FIFA’s decision to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams.
The new format is expected to increase the competition for qualification and give more African teams the opportunity to compete at the World Cup.
It is also expected to provide more opportunities for African players to showcase their talents on the world stage.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are one of the teams that will be hoping to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The Eagles have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014, but they will be hoping to return to the tournament in style.
The Eagles will be drawn into one of the nine groups in the qualifiers. The draw will be held on July 12, 2023.
The Eagles will be hoping to avoid the top teams in Africa, such as Senegal, Algeria, and Morocco.
The Eagles will have a tough task in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. However, they have a talented squad and they will be hoping to make their country proud.
