2027 AFCON to Feature 28 Nations as CAF Approves Tournament Expansion

2027 AFCON to Feature 28 Nations as CAF Approves Tournament Expansion

By Niyi Busari 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved the expansion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from 24 to 28 teams, with the new format taking effect from the 2027 edition of the tournament, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe announced the decision while addressing journalists in Johannesburg on Wednesday, describing the move as part of the organisation's commitment to broadening participation and creating more opportunities for national teams across the continent.

The 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, will be the first edition to feature 28 participating nations.

Under the revised format, the teams will be drawn into seven groups of four. The top two teams from each group will qualify automatically for the knockout stage, while the two best third-placed teams will complete the Round of 16 lineup.

The expansion marks the latest evolution of Africa's premier football competition, following CAF's decision to increase the tournament from 16 to 24 teams ahead of the 2019 edition in Egypt.

According to CAF, the expanded format is expected to enhance competition while offering more nations the opportunity to compete on the continent's biggest football stage.

The 2027 tournament will also be historic as it marks the first time the Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted in East Africa, with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania staging the continental showpiece.

Motsepe reiterated CAF's commitment to strengthening the quality, commercial value and global profile of African football, noting that preparations for the expanded tournament are already underway.

Qualifying matches for the 2027 AFCON are expected to begin later this year.