The Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers enter a crucial phase, with the third round taking place from 12 to 14 November 2026 and the fourth round scheduled for 16 to 17 November. After two matches, several teams have made strong starts, but a number of groups remain finely balanced.

In Group A, Morocco have won both games and will look to maintain their perfect record against Niger. The Atlas Lions lead Gabon and Niger by three points, with both chasing teams aiming to strengthen their positions.

Egypt and Angola each have four points in Group B, one ahead of Malawi. Egypt face Malawi, while Angola play South Sudan. Victories for both leaders would give them valuable breathing space.

Group C brings together Cote d’Ivoire and Gambia, the only sides in the section with maximum points. Their meetings could establish a clear leader. Ghana and Somalia, both still without a point, meet in a double-header that offers either side a chance to revive its campaign.

South Africa lead Group D with six points and face Kenya, who are already qualified as tournament hosts. Guinea, on three points, play Eritrea and could move closer to the leaders. The remaining qualifying place is primarily being contested by South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea.

DR Congo are seeking a third successive victory in Group E against bottom side Sierra Leone, who have no points. Equatorial Guinea and Zimbabwe, both on three points, meet with second place behind the Leopards at stake.

Group F is closely contested, with Benin and Burkina Faso on four points and Mauritania on three. Benin face Central African Republic, while Burkina Faso travel to Mauritania.

Cameroon lead Group G with four points, followed by Comoros and Namibia on three. Cameroon play Namibia and Comoros host Congo, with both fixtures capable of changing the standings.

Uganda, already qualified as hosts, top Group H on four points. Botswana and Tunisia have two each, while Libya have one. Tunisia against Libya and Uganda against Botswana are both important in the fight for the only remaining qualifying place.

In Group I, leaders Algeria, on four points, host Togo, who have three. The Sparrowhawks can draw level before the return match in Lome. Zambia, also on three points, face Burundi, who have one.

Senegal and Mozambique share the lead in Group J with four points. Senegal host Sudan, who are third on three, while Mozambique face Ethiopia, still without a point.

Mali and Rwanda have both won their opening two matches in Group K, making their meeting the round’s headline fixture. Cape Verde and Liberia, yet to collect a point, meet in the other game.

Guinea-Bissau lead Group L with six points after, among other results, a 3-0 win over Nigeria. The Djurtus play Madagascar, while Nigeria host Tanzania, who are already qualified as hosts. Nigeria, second on three points, must close the gap.