AFCON qualifiers — what fans need right now

AFCON qualifiers decide who plays at the Africa Cup of Nations. If you care about African football, these matches matter: they bring big moments, surprise results and players who can change a tournament. Here’s a clear, useful guide to the qualifiers — when games happen, who to watch, how teams advance and how you can follow every match.

How the qualifiers work

Qualifying usually runs in international windows across the year. Teams are placed in groups and play home-and-away fixtures. In most cycles the top team in each group earns a spot at AFCON, and some runners-up may also qualify or go into playoffs. Points follow the usual format: three for a win, one for a draw, zero for a loss. Tiebreakers go to head-to-head results, goal difference, then goals scored.

That format means every match counts. A single away win can flip a group, so expect tight, competitive games even from smaller nations. Pay attention to midweek fixtures: national teams often rotate players, so squad depth can decide who qualifies.

Teams and players to watch

Top African sides often include Senegal, Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Ivory Coast and Ghana. These teams mix experienced internationals with players from top European leagues. Stars to keep an eye on: Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) and Sadio Mané (Senegal). Their form with club teams usually reflects quickly in national matches.

Don’t ignore emerging teams and young players. Qualifiers are where new forwards, defenders and midfielders make names for themselves. A breakout player here can become a transfer target and a fan favorite by the time AFCON starts.

Want real-time standings? Use CAF’s official site and apps like Flashscore or SofaScore for live results and group tables. Follow national federations on Twitter or Facebook for lineups and injury updates.

How to watch, travel and attend matches

Broadcast rights vary by country. In Africa, SuperSport and local broadcasters often hold rights. Outside Africa, platforms like beIN Sports or regional streaming services may show games. Check your local listings and subscribe early if needed. For pick-up alerts, sign up to Patio Pulse newsletters or follow our AFCON qualifiers tag for quick headlines.

Heading to a match? Buy tickets from official federation sites or trusted vendors. Check visa rules, stadium safety guidelines and local transport on match day. Arrive early, carry ID and a printed ticket, and expect tight security at big derby games.

If you’re betting or fantasy-managing, follow team news the day before kickoff. Coaches often change starting XIs based on travel fatigue and injuries. Last-minute drops or recoveries are common and can swing outcomes.

Want updates from Patio Pulse? Bookmark our AFCON qualifiers tag. We bring match reports, tactical notes and quick score updates from across the continent so you don’t miss the big moments.