Africa’s 10 Teams U-17 World Cup line-up has been officially confirmed following the thrilling conclusion of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) play-offs on Saturday. The continent will be represented by ten nations at the historic FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, the first to feature 48 teams.
Egypt and Uganda secured the final two spots after dramatic victories in their respective play-off matches. Uganda made history by qualifying for their first-ever U-17 World Cup with a 2-1 comeback win over The Gambia. After conceding in the opening minute, goals from James Bogere in the 13th and 33rd minutes propelled the East Africans into the spotlight.
Later in the evening, host nation Egypt thrilled home supporters by edging Angola 2-1. A deflected strike from Abdel Aziz El Zoghby and a composed finish by Hamza Mohamed Abdel Karim sealed their return to the global stage.
These two nations join Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zambia, who had all previously secured qualification by advancing to the quarterfinals of the U-17 AFCON.
The 2025 U-17 World Cup, set for 3–27 November in Qatar, marks a historic expansion of the tournament. With 48 teams participating for the first time, it’s expected to be the biggest and most competitive youth competition yet.
Among Africa’s 10 representatives are some familiar names. Senegal, reigning African champions, look to extend their dominance, while Côte d’Ivoire impressed during the group stage with a commanding 4-2 win over Mali. Morocco, Zambia, South Africa, and Tunisia also bring strong squads with global ambitions.
The tournament has previously served as a launchpad for African greats such as Michael Essien, Nwankwo Kanu, and Seydou Keita. Now, a new generation of African stars will aim to follow in their footsteps on the world stage.
With the final ten African teams locked in, all eyes now turn to the tournament draw and preparations for what promises to be a landmark edition of the U-17 World Cup in Doha.
