The race to reach the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Ghana 2027 is under way in North Africa, with the UNAF qualifying tournament kicking off on Thursday, 24 September in Egypt. Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Morocco are all in the hunt for a coveted spot at the continental finals.

The five nations will contest a round-robin format across two venues — the Suez Canal Stadium, which hosts the bulk of the fixtures, and Ismailia Stadium, which stages one match on the final day. The tournament runs from 24 September to 6 October.

How the fixtures unfold

Algeria and Tunisia open proceedings on 24 September at the Suez Canal Stadium, before hosts Egypt take on Libya in the evening fixture. Morocco receive a bye in the opening round.

The action resumes on 27 September when Libya face Algeria and Tunisia meet Morocco, both at the Suez Canal Stadium. Egypt sit out that round.

Round three on 30 September sees Egypt return to action against Tunisia, while Morocco face Algeria at the same venue. Libya have a bye.

On 3 October, Tunisia square off against Libya before Egypt meet Morocco in the day's second fixture. Algeria take a rest day in the fourth round.

The qualifiers reach their climax on 6 October with two potentially decisive matches played simultaneously. Libya face Morocco at Ismailia Stadium, while Algeria meet Egypt at the Suez Canal Stadium. Tunisia sit out the final round.

A fiercely contested region

UNAF qualifiers have long been regarded as among the most competitive in African football. The five North African sides are closely matched, and history suggests that any nation can take top spot on any given matchday. That parity makes the battle for a place at TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Ghana 2027 all the more compelling — and unpredictable.

The draw for the tournament was conducted on Wednesday, 26 August, setting the stage for what promises to be a gripping qualifying campaign.