Morocco, one of the confirmed hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, has been named as the venue for Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs. The mini-tournament will feature the four best runners-up from the continent’s nine qualifying groups, following the conclusion of Matchday 10.
According to a circular from CAF’s Director of Competitions and Events, Samson Adamu, the semifinals are scheduled for 13 November 2025, with the final set three days later. The October 2025 FIFA Rankings, to be released on 23 October, will determine the seeding for the draw: the highest-ranked team will face the fourth-ranked, while the second and third-ranked sides clash in the other semifinal.
The playoff promises intense competition, with nations including Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, Burkina Faso, and Madagascar still vying for Africa’s final chance to reach the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The winner of Morocco’s playoff will advance to the intercontinental play-offs, facing teams from Asia, South America, Oceania, and CONCACAF for a coveted spot at the global tournament.
This mini-tournament represents the decisive final step for Africa in its bid to secure a 10th representative at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
