Egypt prepares for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after 2026 World Cup exit

Egypt's national team, led by coach Hassam Hassan, is gearing up for its first official assignment after the 2026 World Cup, where the Pharaohs made their first appearance in 36 years. Their last match was a 3-2 loss to Argentina in the round of 16, a game marked by controversial refereeing decisions.

When do Egypt's qualifiers begin?

Egypt will play its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September and October. They face Angola in the first round, South Sudan in the second, and will play home-and-away matches against Malawi in the third and fourth rounds.

Egypt's qualifier schedule

  • Round 1: Angola (September 21 - October 6, 2026)
  • Round 2: South Sudan (September 21 - October 6, 2026)
  • Round 3: Malawi (November 9 - 17, 2026)
  • Round 4: Malawi (November 9 - 17, 2026)
  • Round 5: Angola (March 22 - 30, 2027)
  • Round 6: South Sudan (March 22 - 30, 2027)

2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier system

The qualifiers will take place over three periods within FIFA's international match calendar. The 48 participating teams are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the finals, while groups containing a host nation will see an additional team qualify.

2027 Africa Cup of Nations kickoff date

The tournament begins in June 2027, specifically on June 19, with the final scheduled for July 17 of the same year. The event will be held in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time the competition is hosted by three countries.