AFCON Tanzania 2027

CAF Delivers Verdict on Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 Preparations — “On the Right Track”

CAF Tanzania Inspection Verdict — Key Facts

• Inspection dates: 1-3 September 2026 (three days)
• CAF verdict: Tanzania is “on the right track” to host AFCON 2027
• Day 1 (1 Sep) — Dar es Salaam: LOC meeting, Muhimbili Hospital, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI)
• Day 2 (2 Sep) — Zanzibar: Amaan Stadium, Fumba Stadium, supporting infrastructure
• Day 3 (3 Sep) — Arusha: Arusha Stadium, Mgambo/Engutoto/Magereza training grounds, hospitals
• Scope: Stadium infrastructure, medical services, transport, accommodation, security
• Days to tournament: Approximately 288 days to opening match (19 June 2027)

Summary: CAF has completed its three-day inspection of Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 preparations and delivered a positive verdict — Tanzania is “on the right track” to host the continental tournament. The delegation covered Dar es Salaam on 1 September, Zanzibar on 2 September and Arusha on 3 September, assessing stadium infrastructure, training grounds, medical facilities, transport, accommodation and security. CAF officials expressed particular satisfaction with Arusha Stadium’s readiness, Muhimbili National Hospital’s medical capacity and the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute’s specialised services. Three training grounds in Arusha — Mgambo, Engutoto and Magereza — were also assessed.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has completed a three-day inspection of Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 preparations and delivered its most positive verdict of the year. Speaking after the inspection, CAF officials confirmed Tanzania is “on the right track” to host Africa’s biggest football tournament alongside Kenya and Uganda in June-July 2027. This article covers the outcome of the inspection day-by-day, what CAF assessed, the venues and medical facilities toured, and what happens next.

The CAF Verdict — Tanzania “On the Right Track”

Following the three-day inspection, CAF officials confirmed publicly that Tanzania is progressing to the standard required for AFCON 2027 hosting. Speaking after inspecting Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, one CAF delegation member said:

“I think Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is ready for AFCON because the players who are coming for AFCON are different from the players who participate in CHAN. CHAN players are home-based players.”

The reference to CHAN is significant — the African Nations Championship was successfully held in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in August 2025 as an explicit test event for AFCON 2027. CAF’s verdict is that Tanzania has now moved beyond CHAN-level readiness and is preparing for the elevated demands of the full continental tournament.

Day 1 — Dar es Salaam (1 September 2026)

Local Organising Committee meeting

The CAF delegation opened the inspection with a meeting with Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee (LOC) to review the country’s preparations and identify areas requiring greater attention ahead of the tournament. This set the operational context for the technical assessments to follow.

Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)

The delegation visited Muhimbili National Hospital where it reviewed the hospital’s services and specialised facilities, including the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute. Medical infrastructure is a central pillar of AFCON hosting — CAF requires host countries to demonstrate they can provide immediate, world-class medical response for players, officials and spectators.

Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI)

The delegation also toured the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, one of Tanzania’s most advanced medical facilities. JKCI Executive Director Dr Peter Kisenge confirmed the institute is prepared to provide medical services throughout the tournament, including the use of Artificial Intelligence to monitor players remotely — a genuinely cutting-edge capability among African medical facilities.

Day 2 — Zanzibar (2 September 2026)

The delegation travelled to Zanzibar on Wednesday, 2 September to continue inspecting infrastructure and services linked to the country’s AFCON preparations. Zanzibar’s contribution to Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 hosting includes:

• Amaan Stadium — Zanzibar’s traditional main football venue, undergoing renovations to reach CAF standards
• Fumba Stadium — the newly constructed venue at Fumba peninsula, earmarked by the Tanzania LOC for tournament use
• Supporting infrastructure including hotels, transport corridors and medical facilities on the island

Day 3 — Arusha (3 September 2026)

The delegation concluded its three-day Tanzania mission in Arusha on Thursday, 3 September. This was arguably the most productive day of the inspection, with detailed on-site assessments of match venues, training grounds and medical facilities.

Arusha Stadium

The CAF delegation assessed Arusha Stadium’s security systems, spectator areas, commercial facilities and other infrastructure considered critical to the smooth hosting of AFCON matches. CAF officials expressed satisfaction with the state of stadium infrastructure in Arusha.

Three training grounds inspected

The delegation inspected three designated training venues in the Arusha region:

• Mgambo Training Ground — earmarked as a national-team training base
• Engutoto Training Ground — additional training capacity for participating teams
• Magereza Training Ground — third designated Arusha training venue

Multiple training grounds are essential for AFCON hosting because participating teams need dedicated, secure practice facilities close to their host city. Arusha’s three assessed grounds significantly strengthen Tanzania’s training capacity for the tournament.

First-aid facilities and hospitals

The Arusha inspection also covered first-aid facilities and hospitals expected to provide medical services during the tournament. This follows Tanzania Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda’s earlier statement that upgraded hospitals in Arusha would play a key role in AFCON preparations. Makonda emphasised that preparations must go beyond football to include roads, security, food and visitor health.

What CAF Assessed Across the Three Days

The inspection covered every operational area required to host AFCON at world-class standard:

The CAF Delegation’s Structure

The current inspection team is more comprehensive than earlier missions. CAF confirmed the delegation “comprises specialists from several areas involved in tournament delivery, including stadium infrastructure, medical services, transport and logistics, accommodation and security.” This multi-disciplinary structure signals CAF is now assessing operational readiness, not just physical infrastructure.

Why the Medical Assessment Matters

Medical infrastructure has been unusually central to this inspection cycle. Both Dar es Salaam and Arusha hospital tours took significant time, reflecting CAF’s post-2025 emphasis on player welfare and medical capacity. AFCON 2025 in Morocco included several high-profile medical situations that reinforced the importance of world-class facilities.

Tanzania’s investment in emergency care ahead of AFCON is now a strategic tournament asset. As one senior Tanzanian sports official put it: “AFCON is not just about football on the pitch. We have to look at the roads, security and safety, the availability of food, but also people’s health, so that when people come here, if they have a health issue, they are treated.”

The Wider East African Inspection Context

The Tanzania mission is part of a rolling inspection of all three host countries:

Together these three inspections form the second full three-nation assessment round of 2026. The first was conducted between 10 and 17 February 2026 and was accompanied by a high-profile visit from CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe to Tanzania.

Tanzania’s Match Venues at a Glance

Additional match venues may be announced. See our complete AFCON 2027 stadiums guide for detailed profiles.

What Happens Next

Following each inspection mission, CAF’s technical team compiles a detailed report submitted to CAF’s Executive Committee. Based on this and previous inspection cycles, the expected next steps are:

• Q4 2026: CAF Executive Committee reviews inspection reports from all three host countries
• Late 2026 – early 2027: Additional follow-up inspections focused on remaining gaps
• Early 2027: Final venue certification and tournament match allocation announcements
• Q1 2027: Successful CAF tender bidders announced across all sectors
• 19 June 2027: AFCON 2027 opens with 288 days between this inspection and kick-off

Frequently Asked Questions

Did CAF approve Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 preparations?

CAF has stated that Tanzania is “on the right track” to host AFCON 2027 following the three-day inspection between 1 and 3 September 2026. Specific approvals for individual venues will follow in the formal inspection report to CAF’s Executive Committee.

What did CAF inspect in Tanzania in September 2026?

The CAF delegation inspected: (1) In Dar es Salaam — Muhimbili National Hospital, Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute; (2) In Zanzibar — Amaan Stadium, Fumba Stadium, supporting infrastructure; (3) In Arusha — Arusha Stadium, three training grounds (Mgambo, Engutoto, Magereza), first-aid facilities and hospitals.

What did CAF say about Arusha Stadium?

The CAF delegation assessed Arusha Stadium’s security systems, spectator areas, commercial facilities and infrastructure. CAF officials expressed satisfaction with the state of stadium infrastructure in Arusha following the on-site assessment on 3 September 2026.

Which training grounds in Arusha will host AFCON 2027 teams?

CAF inspected three designated training grounds in the Arusha region: Mgambo, Engutoto and Magereza. These will serve as training bases for national teams during AFCON 2027 matches in Arusha.

Why did CAF inspect Muhimbili Hospital and JKCI?

Medical infrastructure is a central pillar of AFCON hosting. CAF requires host countries to demonstrate they can provide world-class medical response for players, officials and spectators. Muhimbili National Hospital and the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute represent Tanzania’s most advanced medical capacity. JKCI has stated it will use Artificial Intelligence to monitor players remotely during the tournament.

Is Tanzania ready for AFCON 2027?

Based on CAF’s public verdict following the September 2026 inspection, Tanzania is on the right track. Areas requiring continued attention include ongoing stadium renovation completion, training ground finalisation and integration of medical, transport and accommodation services with tournament operations. Additional inspection cycles are expected before final certification in early 2027.

How many days until AFCON 2027 begins?

The tournament opens on 19 June 2027. Following the September 2026 inspection, that is approximately 288 days away. The final is on 17 July 2027.

Is AFCON 2027 still on schedule?

Yes. CAF President Patrice Motsepe has repeatedly and publicly ruled out postponement, stating “I am confident that the AFCON in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda will be enormously successful.” The purpose of the September 2026 inspections was to identify gaps and accelerate remediation, not to reconsider the tournament schedule.

Where will Uganda be inspected next?

The CAF inspection team is scheduled to travel to Uganda after Tanzania to assess Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), Hoima City Stadium and designated training venues in Kampala and Hoima. This will complete the current three-nation inspection round.

For our earlier coverage of the CAF inspection arrival see our initial inspection article. For the complete tournament overview see our dates and schedule guide. For all Tanzania AFCON 2027 stadiums see our stadiums guide.

Inspection outcome sourced from Tanzania Daily News, The Respondents, CAF official communications and reporting from Pulse Sports Kenya and Nation.Africa. Article published following completion of the three-day inspection on 3 September 2026. This article will be updated when CAF releases its formal Tanzania inspection report or announces the Uganda leg completion.

CAF Inspection Team Arrives in Tanzania — What the September AFCON 2027 Assessment Covers

CAF Inspection Tanzania — Key Facts

• Inspection dates: 1-3 September 2026 in Tanzania
• Kenya leg: Just completed (26-28 August 2026)
• Uganda leg: Follows the Tanzania visit
• Delegation lead: Khaled Nassar, CAF Head of Competitions
• Cycle: Second inspection round of 2026 (first was 10-17 February)
• Scope: Stadium infrastructure, training grounds, hospitality, transport, security, medical
• Tanzania venues expected: Benjamin Mkapa (Dar), Samia Suluhu (Arusha), Amaan & Fumba (Zanzibar), training grounds
• Days to tournament: Approximately 290 days to opening match (19 June 2027)

Summary: A CAF technical inspection team is in Tanzania from 1 to 3 September 2026 to assess AFCON 2027 preparations. The mission is part of a rolling assessment cycle that has just completed its Kenya leg and will continue to Uganda after Tanzania. Led by CAF Head of Competitions Khaled Nassar, the delegation is expected to inspect Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Samia Suluhu Stadium in Arusha, Amaan and Fumba stadiums in Zanzibar, plus designated training grounds. This is the second full inspection round of 2026 — the first was in February. CAF’s assessment covers pitch quality, safety, security, VIP facilities, media infrastructure, transport, medical services and operational capability across the tournament ecosystem.

A Confederation of African Football (CAF) technical inspection team is in Tanzania from 1 to 3 September 2026 to assess preparations and infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team arrives in Dar es Salaam following the completion of the Kenya leg of the current inspection round in late August, and will continue to Uganda after the Tanzania visit. This article covers what CAF inspects, which Tanzanian venues are on the assessment list, what previous inspections have found, and what the outcome could mean for the tournament.

The Current Inspection Timeline

This is the second full inspection round of 2026. The first was conducted between 10 and 17 February 2026 and was accompanied by a high-profile visit from CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and the CAF Executive Committee to Tanzania on 13 February. Both inspection cycles are part of CAF’s ongoing readiness assessment for the tournament.

Who Is Leading the CAF Delegation

The CAF technical inspection team for the current round is led by Khaled Nassar, CAF Head of Competitions. The February 2026 inspection cycle included a broader technical delegation, notably:

• Aaron Mark Cross — CAF Pitch Management Expert (assessed all playing surfaces across the three countries)
• Lakshmikanth Karunanithi — infrastructure and stadium operations
• Eduard Captan — venue readiness and training grounds
• Samson Adamu — Acting CAF General Secretary (led earlier April 2026 delegation)

These technical experts represent decades of AFCON delivery experience. Their reports form the basis of CAF’s official assessment of host readiness — and, ultimately, whether specific venues are certified for tournament use.

Tanzania Venues Expected on the Inspection List

🏟️ Benjamin Mkapa Stadium — Dar es Salaam

Tanzania’s flagship football venue and the primary AFCON 2027 stadium. Capacity 60,000. Previous inspection in June 2026 focused on the playing surface, VIP and VVIP sections, media facilities, dressing rooms and operational areas. Reports from that visit noted CAF inspectors expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of renovation works.

🏟️ Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium — Arusha

Arusha’s dedicated AFCON 2027 venue. Named in honour of Tanzania’s President. Assessed by CAF during the February 2026 inspection round. Modern facility being purpose-built for the tournament.

🏟️ Amaan Stadium — Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s traditional main football venue. Undergoing renovations to reach CAF standards.

🏟️ Fumba Stadium — Zanzibar

Newly constructed venue at Zanzibar’s Fumba peninsula, earmarked by the Tanzania Local Organising Committee for AFCON 2027 use. Previously inspected by CAF in February 2026.

🏋️ Training Grounds — Dar es Salaam

Previous CAF inspections have specifically visited:

• Gymkhana II Ground — being upgraded to national-team training standards
• Faras Training Ground — designated training base for participating nations

Additional training venues in Arusha and Zanzibar are expected to be on the September inspection list.

What CAF Actually Inspects — Beyond the Pitch

CAF inspections extend far beyond football pitches. The assessment covers the entire tournament ecosystem needed to deliver AFCON at world-class standard. CAF’s own inspection framework includes:

This is why CAF inspection missions include not only technical stadium experts but also officials from CAF’s competitions, commercial, broadcasting, safety and security, and finance departments. The March 2026 delegation led by Acting CAF General Secretary Samson Adamu explicitly represented these functional areas.

What Previous Inspections Have Found

February 2026 inspection round: Full assessment of six Kenyan venues, four Tanzanian venues and three Ugandan venues. CAF stated that inspections were designed to apply “strict, world-class delivery standards” and confirmed continued commitment to East Africa as joint hosts.

June 2026 inspection (Tanzania-focused): CAF officials Lakshmikanth Karunanithi and Eduard Captan expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium renovation works. They noted the developments demonstrated Tanzania’s serious commitment to delivering world-class facilities.

April 2026 mission: CAF Acting General Secretary Samson Adamu led a delivery-focused delegation described as being sent to conduct “a strategic assessment to see if the ambitious PAMOJA vision can withstand the pressure of a looming 2027 deadline.” CAF characterised the phase as a “do-or-die” moment for the three host nations.

Kenya leg (August 2026): Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya emphasised that hosting AFCON represents “a historic milestone for East Africa as a region” — noting that while West, North and South Africa have frequently hosted, this joint bid gives East African nations “a unique opportunity to demonstrate their capability on the big stage.”

The Pattern — Increasing Inspection Frequency as Tournament Nears

The frequency of CAF inspection missions has intensified through 2026 — a pattern that will continue through to the tournament opening in June 2027:

The CHAN Precedent — Why CHAN 2024 Matters for AFCON 2027

The African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 was staged in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in August 2025. CAF President Motsepe explicitly framed CHAN as preparation for AFCON 2027: “That’s why I insisted that the African Nations Championship (CHAN) should take place there to get them ready.”

The successful delivery of CHAN gave CAF direct evidence of the three nations’ operational capability and revealed which specific areas needed strengthening. Many of the current 2026 inspections build directly on what was learned during CHAN 2024.

What Happens After the Inspection

Following each inspection mission, the CAF technical team compiles a detailed report submitted to CAF’s Executive Committee. The report typically includes:

• Venue-by-venue readiness rating — including which venues can be confirmed and which need further work
• Specific remediation requirements — with deadlines for compliance
• Infrastructure gap analysis — identifying areas requiring accelerated investment
• Operational readiness score — LOC capability, staffing, systems
• Risk assessment — factors that could threaten tournament delivery
• Recommendations for next inspection cycle

CAF has consistently expressed public confidence in the three East African nations’ ability to deliver AFCON 2027. President Motsepe stated: “I am confident that the AFCON in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda will be enormously successful.” The inspection process is designed to convert that confidence into certified readiness by early 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the CAF inspection in Tanzania?

The CAF technical inspection team is in Tanzania from 1 to 3 September 2026 to assess preparations and infrastructure ahead of AFCON 2027. This is part of a three-nation inspection round that has just completed its Kenya leg and will continue to Uganda after Tanzania.

Which Tanzanian venues will CAF inspect in September 2026?

The delegation is expected to inspect Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha, and Amaan Stadium and Fumba Stadium in Zanzibar. Training venues at Gymkhana II and Faras grounds in Dar es Salaam are also on previous inspection lists.

Who is leading the CAF inspection team?

The current CAF technical inspection team is led by Khaled Nassar, CAF Head of Competitions. Previous inspection missions have included pitch expert Aaron Mark Cross, infrastructure specialists Lakshmikanth Karunanithi and Eduard Captan, and Acting CAF General Secretary Samson Adamu.

What does CAF actually inspect during an AFCON assessment?

CAF inspections assess pitch quality, safety and security, VIP/VVIP facilities, media infrastructure, medical services, transport and access, team hospitality, and operational capability. The mission covers not only stadiums but training grounds, hotels, hospitals, transport corridors and the LOC’s readiness across all functional areas.

How many CAF inspections have there been in 2026?

The September 2026 mission is the second full three-nation inspection round of 2026. The first was conducted between 10 and 17 February 2026 alongside a CAF Executive Committee visit led by President Patrice Motsepe. Additional venue-specific and delivery-focused missions took place in April and June 2026, and CHAN 2024 in August 2025 served as a de facto test event.

What did previous CAF inspections find in Tanzania?

CAF inspectors have consistently expressed satisfaction with Tanzania’s AFCON 2027 preparations. Following June 2026 assessments, officials Lakshmikanth Karunanithi and Eduard Captan praised the pace and quality of renovations at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and noted that developments demonstrate Tanzania’s serious commitment to delivering world-class facilities.

Will CAF withdraw hosting rights from East Africa?

CAF has repeatedly and publicly ruled this out. CAF President Motsepe stated: “I am confident that the AFCON in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda will be enormously successful.” The purpose of inspections is to identify gaps and accelerate remediation, not to reconsider hosting decisions. CAF has stressed continued commitment to East Africa as joint hosts.

What happens after the September 2026 inspection?

The CAF technical team will compile a detailed report to CAF’s Executive Committee including venue-by-venue readiness ratings, specific remediation requirements, and recommendations. Follow-up inspection cycles will continue through late 2026 and early 2027 before final venue certification for the tournament opening on 19 June 2027.

Which is the AFCON 2027 opening venue in Tanzania?

Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s primary AFCON 2027 venue and is being prepared for high-profile matches. The specific opening match venue for the entire tournament has not yet been announced by CAF but will be selected between the flagship venues in the three host countries.

How many days until AFCON 2027 begins?

The tournament opens on 19 June 2027. As of the September 2026 inspection, that is approximately 290 days away. The final is on 17 July 2027.

For the complete tournament overview see our dates and schedule guide. For all Tanzania AFCON 2027 stadiums see our stadiums guide. For the interactive stadium map see our stadium map.

Inspection details confirmed via CAF official communications and reporting from EWN, Dawan Africa, Tanzania Insight, IPP Media, Africasoccer, Morocco World News and Kawowo Sports. This article will be updated when CAF releases the official Tanzania inspection report or announces follow-up mission dates.

Kenya’s AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Squad — McCarthy Names 38-Man Provisional Team as Olunga Returns

Kenya AFCON 2027 Squad — Key Facts

• Squad announced: 1 September 2026 by head coach Benni McCarthy
• Squad size: 38-man provisional list
• Notable returns: Captain Michael Olunga, vice-captain Joseph Okumu
• Debutants: 3 new call-ups
• Group D opponents: 🇿🇦 South Africa · 🇬🇳 Guinea · 🇪🇷 Eritrea
• Kenya vs Eritrea: 26 September 2026 · Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi
• Kenya vs Guinea: 1 October 2026 · Stade du 28 Septembre, Conakry
• Kenya status: Automatically qualified as co-host — playing qualifiers for competitive preparation

Summary: Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has named a 38-man provisional squad for the opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Eritrea and Guinea. Captain Michael Olunga and vice-captain Joseph Okumu both return from injury, three debutants earn their first Harambee Stars call-ups, and the squad blends European-based professionals with domestic FKF Premier League talent. Kenya opens Group D at home to Eritrea on 26 September at Nyayo National Stadium, then travels to Conakry to face Guinea on 1 October. Although Kenya is automatically qualified for AFCON 2027 as co-host, McCarthy is treating these fixtures as competitive preparation for the tournament on home soil.

Kenya’s Harambee Stars have unveiled a 38-man provisional squad ahead of the opening fixtures of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Head coach Benni McCarthy has named a group that blends experienced internationals with young talent, as Kenya looks to build momentum before co-hosting the continental tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania. This article covers the full squad list, the qualification path, the standout stories, and what these matches mean for AFCON 2027.

The Full 38-Man Provisional Squad

McCarthy’s squad draws from clubs across Europe, Africa and Kenya’s own FKF Premier League. Here is the complete list by position:

🧤 Goalkeepers (5)

🛡️ Defenders (11)

⚙️ Midfielders (10+)

⚔️ Forwards (led by returning captain)

Additional forwards and midfielders in the 38-man squad. The provisional list will be trimmed to the final matchday squad before Kenya’s opener on 26 September.

The Big Story — Michael Olunga’s Return

Captain Michael Olunga’s inclusion in the squad is the standout story of the announcement. The Al-Arabi SC striker has been out with a severe pelvic injury since March 2026, requiring surgery in Paris on 2 April 2026. His five-month recovery has been carefully managed by both club and country.

The timing of his return is remarkable:

• 2 April 2026: Pelvic surgery in Paris
• 21 August 2026: Competitive comeback as a substitute in Al-Arabi’s Qatar Stars League opener
• 29 August 2026: Scored a crucial equaliser against Al-Duhail SC — his first competitive goal since the injury
• 1 September 2026: Named in Kenya’s provisional AFCON 2027 qualifiers squad

Olunga scoring a competitive goal just three days before the squad announcement means McCarthy has him available with confidence, not on speculation. For Kenya, having a fit captain leading the line for the opener against Eritrea provides emotional as much as tactical value.

Vice-Captain Joseph Okumu Also Returns

The defensive equivalent of Olunga’s return is Joseph Okumu of Stade Reims, who reclaims his vice-captain role in the squad after his own injury layoff. The Ligue 1 centre-back is one of Kenya’s most experienced European-based professionals and pairs naturally in defence with Manzur Okwaro, also of Stade Reims — the club-level partnership becoming a national-team asset.

Three Debutants

McCarthy has included three uncapped players in the provisional squad — part of his stated philosophy of building a young, sustainable squad for AFCON 2027 and beyond. In April 2026 he said: “Everybody is about 25, so it is a young squad, and that is what we want; good, quality top young players that can represent Kenya so that there is continuity.”

Aldrine Kibet is confirmed as one of the debutants earning his first Harambee Stars call-up. This is McCarthy investing in players who will still be at their peak when Kenya kicks off AFCON 2027 in June-July 2027.

The Kenya AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Schedule

The opening two matches fall within the FIFA international window between 21 September and 6 October 2026 — the same window that opens qualifying for all AFCON 2027 groups across Africa.

Group D — Kenya’s Path

Because Kenya is already automatically qualified as co-host, only one other team from Group D advances to AFCON 2027. This turns the pool into a fierce three-way battle between South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea for the second qualifying spot — while giving Kenya four matches of genuine tournament preparation against varied styles.

The McCarthy-South Africa Storyline

The most compelling narrative in the entire qualifying campaign is the eventual Kenya-South Africa fixture. Benni McCarthy is a South African footballing icon — the all-time leading scorer for Bafana Bafana with 32 international goals and a UEFA Champions League winner with Porto in 2004. When he leads Kenya out against his home nation, it will be one of African football’s most emotionally charged fixtures of the qualifying campaign.

South Africa itself is entering a new era, having just confirmed Pitso Mosimane as coach to replace Hugo Broos — meaning the fixture will pit two of South Africa’s most celebrated football figures against each other, both now representing different nations.

Why These Matches Matter Even Though Kenya Is Already Qualified

Kenya’s automatic qualification as co-host has raised the question: what is the point of playing qualifiers at all? McCarthy’s answer is unambiguous — these are competitive preparation matches, not friendlies. His reasoning:

• Match sharpness: Six competitive matches at continental level between September 2026 and March 2027 gives the squad genuine tournament-tempo preparation
• Squad assessment: The provisional 38-man list allows McCarthy to test the full player pool before making final tournament selection decisions
• Tactical rehearsal: Facing South Africa (technical possession), Guinea (physical West African style) and Eritrea (organised defensive setup) exposes Kenya to the variety of opposition they will face at AFCON
• Building respect: As McCarthy said in June 2026: “Even though we have already qualified, we also want to feel like we deserve to be there because of the quality we want to have in the group stages”
• Home crowd chemistry: Playing Eritrea at Nyayo Stadium gives fans and players their first taste of packed-stadium home support ahead of the tournament

Kenya’s AFCON 2027 Preparation Beyond Qualifying

Stadium infrastructure preparation is progressing in parallel. Kenya Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed in late August 2026:

• Raila Odinga International Stadium (formerly Talanta Sports City) — 60,000 capacity, 94% complete as of late August, main pitch already laid, projected ready by November 2026
• Kasarani Stadium — renovations underway to meet CAF standards
• Nyayo National Stadium — renovations underway (this will host Kenya vs Eritrea on 26 September)
• Ulinzi & Police SACCO grounds — designated as additional training venues

Kenya has also fully paid its $30 million CAF hosting fee, clearing the way for the Raila Odinga International Stadium to host the tournament final on 17 July 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is in Kenya’s AFCON 2027 qualifiers squad?

Benni McCarthy named a 38-man provisional squad on 1 September 2026 featuring captain Michael Olunga (Al-Arabi SC), vice-captain Joseph Okumu (Stade Reims), and players from clubs across Europe, Africa and Kenya’s FKF Premier League. Three uncapped players earned debut call-ups, including Aldrine Kibet. Notable Europe-based players include Zak Vyner (Wrexham), Timothy Ouma (Charlton Athletic), Amos Wanjala (Valencia), Manzur Okwaro (Stade Reims), Daniel Ayembe (Viborg FF) and Deon Woodman (Bromley).

When does Kenya play in AFCON 2027 qualifiers?

Kenya’s Matchday 1 fixture is Kenya vs Eritrea on Saturday, 26 September 2026 at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Matchday 2 is Guinea vs Kenya on Thursday, 1 October 2026 at Stade du 28 Septembre in Conakry. Matchdays 3-6 will be played in March 2027.

Is Michael Olunga in Kenya’s AFCON 2027 squad?

Yes. Captain Michael Olunga has returned to the Harambee Stars squad after recovering from pelvic surgery in April 2026. He made his club comeback with Al-Arabi SC on 21 August 2026 and scored a competitive goal against Al-Duhail SC on 29 August 2026, three days before McCarthy named him in the provisional squad.

Who are Kenya’s opponents in AFCON 2027 qualifying?

Kenya is in Group D alongside South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea. Only one other team from the group will qualify for AFCON 2027 because Kenya is already qualified as co-host — turning Group D into a fierce three-way battle between the remaining three nations.

Why is Kenya playing qualifiers if they are already qualified as co-host?

CAF requires all AFCON 2027 co-hosts (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) to play the qualifying rounds despite their automatic qualification. Head coach Benni McCarthy is treating the matches as competitive preparation for the tournament — a chance to test his squad, build match sharpness, and assess players before final AFCON 2027 selection.

Where will Kenya play their home AFCON 2027 qualifier?

Kenya vs Eritrea will be played at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on 26 September 2026. The main AFCON 2027 tournament will use the Raila Odinga International Stadium (formerly Talanta Sports City) which is 94% complete and projected ready by November 2026.

Is Benni McCarthy still Kenya coach?

Yes. Benni McCarthy’s contract as Harambee Stars head coach runs through 2027. The South African football icon and Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading scorer took charge in 2025 and is targeting AFCON 2027 as the culmination of his tenure. He has publicly stated his focus is building a young squad that can represent Kenya beyond his own tenure.

What is the personal storyline between McCarthy and South Africa?

Benni McCarthy is a South African football legend — Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading scorer with 32 international goals and a UEFA Champions League winner with Porto in 2004. When Kenya faces South Africa in Group D, McCarthy will be leading the opposition against the country he once represented with distinction. The fixture is expected to be one of the most emotionally significant of the entire qualifying campaign.

For the complete AFCON 2027 tournament overview see our dates and schedule guide. For the full qualifying schedule across all groups see our qualifiers guide. For our AFCON 2027 predictor covering all 28 teams see our tournament predictor.

Squad and fixture details confirmed by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) statement on 1 September 2026. Sources: Dailysports.net, Kahawatungu, K24 Digital, Pulse Sports Kenya, Standard Media, Citizen Digital, Mozzart Sport Kenya. Squad list may be trimmed to the final matchday squad before Kenya’s 26 September opener. This article will be updated when McCarthy names his final matchday squad.

AFCON 2027 Tender List — All Active Packages, Deadlines, Documents and How to Bid

⚠️ DEADLINE UPDATE — SIX TENDERS EXTENDED TO 16 SEPTEMBER 2026: CAF has extended the closing date by two weeks on six AFCON 2027 tenders. Extended tenders: 509 Ticketing, 510 Transport, 514 Infotainment, 516 Venue Access, 518 Access Control Hardware, 523 ENG Crew. Extended tenders also changed the clarification deadline from “23 August” to “3 days prior to submission” — meaning clarifications for extended tenders are now due 13 September 2026. Other tenders retain their original 02 September 2026 deadline.

CAF AFCON 2027 Tenders — Key Facts

• Active tender packages: 23 confirmed on CAF’s official portal
• Extended tenders (6 packages): new deadline 16 September 2026, 17:00 Cairo
• Standard tenders (many packages): deadline 02 September 2026, 17:00 Cairo
• Health Insurance tender (508): unique deadline 10 September 2026
• Media rights tender: 14 September 2026, 17:00 Cairo
• Extended tender clarifications: 3 days prior to deadline (13 September 2026)
• Standard tender clarifications: 23 August 2026 (already passed)
• Bid submission email: procurement@cafonline.com
• Time zone note: Cairo time = East African Time (no conversion)

Summary: The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has published 23 continental tender packages for AFCON 2027 under the CAF-RFP2026 and CAF-RFQ2026 reference series. In late August 2026 CAF extended six operational tender deadlines by two weeks to 16 September 2026 — ticketing, transport, infotainment, venue access management, access control hardware and ENG crew services. Other tenders including hotels, host broadcast and accreditation printing retain the original 02 September 2026 deadline. All bids submit to procurement@cafonline.com. This article lists every active CAF tender with its verified deadline, required documents and submission process.

This is the practical reference companion to our AFCON 2027 tenders overview. Below you will find the complete, CAF-confirmed list of published AFCON 2027 tender packages, verified extension status, required documents and submission process. Bookmark this page — it is updated directly from CAF’s official portal.

All 23 Active CAF AFCON 2027 Tender Packages — With Verified Deadlines

CAF uses two reference formats: CAF-RFP2026-XXX for Request for Proposal tenders and CAF-RFQ2026-XXX for Request for Quotation tenders. Here is the complete list as published on the official CAF tenders portal:

Important: Deadlines marked “Verify on portal” have not been independently confirmed at the time of writing. Always verify the current deadline directly from each tender page on the CAF portal before submitting a bid. CAF can extend deadlines at any time.

👉 Verify current deadlines on the official CAF tenders portal

Extension Notice — What Changed on 6 Tenders

In late August 2026, CAF issued an “IMPORTANT NOTICE” on six AFCON 2027 tender pages announcing a two-week deadline extension. The notice reads: “Please note that the tender closing date has been extended by two weeks, and this extension will consequently impact the overall tender execution timeline indicated in Doc. 02 – Instructions to Bidders (ITB).”

The extended tenders are:

Critical operational change: The clarification questions rule ALSO changed on extended tenders. Instead of the standard “no later than 23 August 2026, 17:00 Cairo time” (fixed date), extended tenders now use: “no later than three (3) days prior to the RFP submission deadline” — which means clarifications are due by 13 September 2026, 17:00 Cairo time. This gives bidders a much tighter Q&A window because CAF’s response time is compressed.

Tenders NOT Extended — Original 02 September 2026 Deadline Still Applies

Verified as retaining the original 02 September 2026 deadline:

• CAF-RFQ2026-511 — Hotels & Accommodation Services — includes the mandatory Phase 1 Price Collection Sheet as the main submission document
• CAF-RFP2026-517 — Accreditation Printing Materials and Accessories
• CAF-RFP2026-525 — Host Broadcast Services

Standard clarification deadline for these tenders was 23 August 2026, which has already passed. Bidders can no longer submit clarification questions on these tenders — bid on the terms of the original documentation.

Unique Deadline — CAF-RFP2026-508 (Health Insurance)

The Health Insurance Provider tender is not AFCON-specific — it is a CAF corporate services procurement. It has its own separate timeline:

• Submission deadline: 10 September 2026, 17:00 Cairo time
• Clarifications deadline: 31 August 2026, 17:00 Cairo time

The 12–14 Required Documents in Every CAF Tender Package

Each AFCON 2027 CAF tender package contains a standard set of documents. Bidders must download, complete and submit all of them:

Sector-specific note: Hotel and accommodation tenders (511, 512) include an additional required document: the AFCON2027 Price Collection Sheet, which is the main document to be submitted for Phase 1.

The CAF Bid Submission Process — Step by Step

Step 1 — Register as a CAF vendor

Mandatory first step. Only registered CAF vendors receive tender notifications and are eligible to bid. Registration is free.

👉 Register at the CAF vendor portal

Step 2 — Verify the current deadline

Before starting work, visit the specific tender page on the CAF portal to confirm the current deadline. As of late August 2026, six tenders have been extended — more may follow.

Step 3 — Download all documents in the tender package

Download all 12–14 documents (14 including Local Economic Participation Guide and any sector-specific documents like the Price Collection Sheet for hotels tenders).

Step 4 — Submit your Letter of Interest (LOI) as early as possible

Send Doc 03 (Letter of Interest) to procurement@cafonline.com. CAF only shares Q&A responses with bidders who submitted their LOI early. Late LOI submission means missing critical clarifications your competitors will have received.

Step 5 — Submit clarification questions before the Q&A deadline

For extended tenders (509, 510, 514, 516, 518, 523): questions due 3 days before submission deadline (13 September 2026 for 16 September deadline). For non-extended tenders: original 23 August 2026 deadline has passed.

Step 6 — Complete all technical, financial and compliance documents

Complete Docs 12, 13, 14 using CAF’s exact templates. Do not modify template structures.

Step 7 — Submit the complete package before the deadline

Email to procurement@cafonline.com before 17:00 Cairo time on the deadline date. Late submissions are automatically rejected.

Contact Points Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Which AFCON 2027 tender deadlines have been extended?

As of late August 2026, six tenders were extended by two weeks to 16 September 2026: CAF-RFP2026-509 (Ticketing), CAF-RFP2026-510 (Transport), CAF-RFP2026-514 (Infotainment), CAF-RFP2026-516 (Venue Access Management), CAF-RFQ2026-518 (Access Control Hardware) and CAF-RFP2026-523 (ENG Crew Services). CAF’s extension notice states the change “will consequently impact the overall tender execution timeline.”

Which AFCON 2027 tenders were NOT extended?

Verified as retaining the 02 September 2026 deadline: CAF-RFQ2026-511 (Hotels), CAF-RFP2026-517 (Accreditation Printing), CAF-RFP2026-525 (Host Broadcast). For other tenders not individually verified, check the CAF portal directly.

Did the clarification deadline change for extended tenders?

Yes. Extended tenders changed from the standard “23 August 2026” fixed clarification deadline to “3 days prior to the submission deadline” — which means 13 September 2026 for tenders now due 16 September. This gives bidders a tighter Q&A window than the original 10-day gap.

When is the AFCON 2027 Health Insurance tender deadline?

CAF-RFP2026-508 (Health Insurance Provider) has a unique deadline of 10 September 2026 with clarifications due 31 August 2026. This is a CAF corporate services tender rather than an AFCON operational tender.

What is special about the Hotels tender (CAF-RFQ2026-511)?

The Hotels tender includes an additional sector-specific document — the AFCON2027 Price Collection Sheet — as the main document to be submitted for Phase 1. This makes it a two-phase tender with an initial pricing-focused submission before full proposal review.

What is the difference between CAF-RFP2026 and CAF-RFQ2026?

RFP (Request for Proposal) is used for complex tenders requiring technical and financial evaluation. RFQ (Request for Quotation) is generally used for more standardised procurement where price is the primary factor. Extensions in this round were applied to both types.

How many AFCON 2027 tenders are currently active?

23 continental tender packages are currently active on CAF’s official portal — covering ticketing, transport, accommodation, broadcasting, technology, VAR services, workforce management, ceremonies, branding, photography and more.

Where do I register as a CAF vendor?

Register free at cafonline.com/inside-caf/about-us/tenders/vendor-registration/. Only registered vendors are notified of new tenders. Registration typically takes several days to process — do not leave it until close to a bid deadline.

Do I need to submit a Letter of Interest?

Yes — and submit it as early as possible. CAF only shares clarification responses with bidders who submitted their Letter of Interest early. This is not a formality — it directly affects your access to critical clarification information.

Is Cairo time the same as East African time?

Yes. 17:00 Cairo = 17:00 Dar es Salaam = 17:00 Nairobi = 17:00 Kampala. No conversion required.

How does CAF evaluate AFCON 2027 tender bids?

CAF evaluates bids on technical capacity (Doc 12), financial proposal (Doc 13), sustainability compliance (Doc 10), local economic participation (Doc 11) and functionality grid scoring (Doc 14). Exact weighting is specified in each tender’s Instructions to Bidders (Doc 02).

For the complete overview of CAF AFCON 2027 tender opportunities see our CAF AFCON 2027 tenders overview. For the media rights tender specifically see our media rights guide. For business opportunities that do not require formal CAF tender processes see our business listings page.

Deadline extensions and tender details verified directly from CAF’s official portal at cafonline.com by reading each tender page individually on 30 August 2026. Six tenders confirmed extended. Three tenders confirmed not extended. Other tenders’ deadlines require independent verification on the CAF portal. Specific deadlines subject to change — always verify directly from CAF before bidding. Article last updated 30 August 2026.

CAF Opens AFCON 2027 Tender Opportunities — Full Guide for Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan Businesses

CAF AFCON 2027 Tenders — Key Facts

• Active tender packages: Over 19 AFCON 2027 tenders listed on the CAF portal
• Sectors covered: ticketing, transport, accommodation, broadcasting, technology, branding, workforce and more
• Media rights deadline: September 14, 2026 (5:00 PM Cairo time)
• Host countries: Kenya 🇰🇪, Tanzania 🇹🇿, Uganda 🇺🇬
• Vendor registration: Free — mandatory first step at cafonline.com
• Submissions: procurement@cafonline.com
• Local Economic Participation Guide: Included in every AFCON tender package

Summary: The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened over 19 tender packages for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, covering ticketing, transportation, accommodation, broadcasting, accreditation, venue access, technology, branding, ceremonies, photography and workforce management. Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan businesses are being actively encouraged by their Local Organising Committees to bid. Vendor registration is free through the official CAF portal, and all bids are submitted via procurement@cafonline.com.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened a broad range of tender opportunities for companies seeking to provide goods and services for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. As of mid-August 2026, the CAF official tender portal had listed 19 service packages connected to AFCON 2027 operations, with more expected to follow. For businesses across the three host nations, this represents the single largest procurement opportunity linked to AFCON 2027 and one of the biggest business events East Africa has seen in decades.

What CAF Is Tendering

The tender opportunities span every operational area of the tournament. This is the full list of sectors CAF has opened for bidding:

These are the operational contracts that make AFCON happen. Every fan interaction — from buying a ticket to entering a stadium to being transported between venues — is delivered through a supplier network. CAF is now assembling that network from scratch for the three host countries.

Who Can Bid

CAF’s tender process is open to any qualified company or service provider that meets the technical, financial and legal requirements outlined in each specific tender package. CAF says it is seeking “established, experienced and reputable service providers” with the technical and operational capacity required for the respective areas. In practice, this includes:

• Established businesses with proven capacity in the relevant sector
• Consortia and partnerships combining specialist providers into a full-service bid
• Local companies from Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda — CAF has included an AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide specifically to support host-nation businesses
• International companies with existing sports event delivery experience
• SMEs subcontracting to lead bidders where they cannot bid directly for the full package

How to Register and Bid — Step by Step

Step 1 — Register as a CAF vendor (mandatory)

Complete vendor registration at the official CAF portal. This is the mandatory first step — only registered vendors are notified of new tenders and considered for bids.

👉 Register as a CAF vendor

Registration is free. Submit your company details and you will receive a confirmation email for verification. Registration adds you to CAF’s vendor database and enables you to participate in future Tenders, Request for Quotation (RFQ), Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes.

Step 2 — Browse active AFCON 2027 tenders

All active AFCON 2027 tender packages are listed on the CAF tenders page. As of August 12, 2026 the portal listed 19 service packages, with additional tenders being added regularly.

👉 View active AFCON 2027 tenders

Each tender uses the reference format CAF-RFP2026-XXX — for example CAF-RFP2026-509 for End-to-End Ticketing Service, CAF-RFP2026-538 for VAR Services, CAF-RFP2026-539 for Player/Team Tracking Cameras. Each package has its own submission deadline stated in the tender documentation.

Step 3 — Download the complete tender documentation

Each tender package includes these documents. Bidders must complete and submit all of them:

• Invitation to Tender — the formal notice
• Instructions to Bidders (ITB) — process, criteria and submission format
• Letter of Interest (LOI) template
• CAF Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) template
• CAF General Terms and Conditions (GTC) 2026
• Supplier Registration Form
• Online Supplier Registration link
• Supplier & Partner Sustainability Due Diligence Questionnaire
• AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide v.2026
• Technical Proposal Questionnaire — sector-specific
• Financial Proposal Template
• Functionality Grid — for capability assessment

Some tenders include additional technical or financial templates specific to the sector.

Step 4 — Submit clarification questions early

Send any questions to procurement@cafonline.com before the clarification deadline stated in each tender package. Important: CAF only shares responses with bidders who submitted their Letter of Interest early — so register your interest as soon as possible to receive Q&A updates.

Step 5 — Submit your complete proposal

Submit the full proposal by email to procurement@cafonline.com before the deadline stated for that specific tender. CAF has warned bidders to ensure all mandatory registration and compliance documents are included with the offer. Miss the deadline and your bid is disqualified regardless of quality.

Media Rights — The Separate Major Deadline

Alongside the operational tenders, CAF has also opened bidding for AFCON 2027 broadcast media rights. The tender covers free-to-air and pay-TV rights across Sub-Saharan Africa in English, Swahili, Portuguese, isiZulu, Wolof, Yoruba and other local languages. French-language pay-TV rights are not included in this package.

Media rights bid deadline: 5:00 PM Cairo time, September 14, 2026.

Expected bidders include incumbent Sub-Saharan rights holder New World TV, SuperSport (which is trying to reclaim rights it lost ahead of AFCON 2023), Canal+, beIN Sports, Azam TV (Tanzania) and SABC Sport (South Africa). See our complete AFCON 2027 media rights guide.

Why This Matters for East African Businesses

The AFCON 2027 tender process is more than a procurement exercise — it is potentially the largest single business opportunity to hit East Africa in a decade. Several factors combine to make it uniquely significant:

1. Local content preference. CAF has included an AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide in the tender packages. While the specific weighting has not been publicly disclosed, this signals that host-country businesses are being deliberately favoured over pure international bidders where local capacity exists.

2. Government backing for local bids. Tanzania’s LOC Secretary Neema Msitha has publicly urged Tanzanian companies to bid. Kenya and Uganda governments have made similar calls. This is not just permission — it is active state support for local participation.

3. Reputational value beyond the contract. Companies that successfully deliver AFCON 2027 contracts gain instant international credibility. AFCON 2025 in Morocco generated a cumulative television audience of over 3.2 billion people alongside six billion digital views. Being on that stage is a credential that opens doors long after the tournament ends.

4. Network effects for future contracts. The relationships built during AFCON 2027 procurement extend well beyond the tournament — into future CAF events, regional football competitions and government sports procurement.

What LOCs Are Saying

Speaking in Dar es Salaam, Local Organising Committee (LOC) Secretary Neema Msitha said CAF had advertised tenders covering various areas of tournament preparation and operations. She urged Tanzanian businesses and professionals with the required capacity to closely monitor CAF’s official tender platform and submit bids that meet the stipulated requirements and deadlines.

“This is an opportunity for Tanzanian companies, institutions and service providers to participate in activities associated with AFCON 2027,” Msitha said. “LOC is encouraging Tanzanians with the capacity, qualifications and interest to pursue these opportunities to follow the official tender announcements through the CAF website.”

In Uganda, Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, Chairperson of the Communications and Promotion Sub-Committee of Uganda’s AFCON 2027 LOC, made the same call: “Only suppliers who have registered through CAF’s official platform will be notified about upcoming tenders once they are released.”

Key Dates and Deadlines

Frequently Asked Questions

How many AFCON 2027 tenders has CAF opened?

Over 19 tender packages were listed on the CAF portal as of mid-August 2026, with more being added regularly. Sectors include ticketing, transportation, accommodation, broadcasting, accreditation, venue access, technology (including VAR, SAOT and goal-line technology), branding, ceremonies, photography, language services, workforce and infotainment.

Where do I register for AFCON 2027 tenders?

Register free at the official CAF vendor portal: cafonline.com/inside-caf/about-us/tenders/vendor-registration/. Only registered vendors are notified of new tenders and eligible to bid.

Where do I view all active AFCON 2027 tenders?

All active tenders are listed at cafonline.com/en/inside-caf/about-us/tenders/tenders-tab/. Each tender has its own reference number in the format CAF-RFP2026-XXX and its own submission deadline.

Who can bid for AFCON 2027 tenders?

Any qualified company or service provider meeting the technical, financial and legal requirements can bid. CAF has issued a special Local Economic Participation Guide encouraging Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan businesses to participate. International companies with sports event delivery experience are also eligible.

How do I submit an AFCON 2027 tender bid?

All tender bids are submitted by email to procurement@cafonline.com before the deadline stated in the specific tender package. All mandatory documents must be included — Letter of Interest, NDA, supplier registration, sustainability questionnaire, technical proposal, financial proposal and the AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide.

When are AFCON 2027 tender deadlines?

Deadlines vary by tender. The media rights tender closes on September 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM Cairo time. The ticketing services tender (CAF-RFP2026-509) had a September 2, 2026 deadline. Other operational tenders have deadlines throughout Q4 2026 — specific dates are stated in each tender’s documentation on the CAF portal.

Are Tanzanian companies favoured in AFCON 2027 tenders?

CAF has included an AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide in every AFCON tender package. The specific weighting has not been publicly disclosed but the guide signals host-country businesses are being encouraged to participate. Prospective bidders should examine the full guide within each tender documentation package to understand the specific requirements.

How big is the AFCON 2027 procurement opportunity?

Specific contract values have not been disclosed but the scale is substantial. AFCON 2025 in Morocco generated a cumulative television audience of over 3.2 billion people and six billion digital views, requiring delivery across multiple venues over a month-long tournament. The scale of the 2027 tournament — 28 teams across three host countries and seven stadiums — makes the combined procurement one of the largest single business events in East Africa in recent years.

What is the AFCON 2027 Local Economic Participation Guide?

It is a document included in every AFCON 2027 tender package that outlines requirements and expectations for host-country business participation. It is designed to ensure Tanzanian, Kenyan and Ugandan companies get meaningful opportunities to deliver goods and services during the tournament. Downloading this guide is part of the standard tender documentation.

Can small businesses bid for AFCON 2027 tenders?

Large contracts typically require established companies with proven capacity. However, small businesses can participate as subcontractors to lead bidders or as part of consortia combining specialist providers. Reviewing the specific tender packages is the best way to identify opportunities that match your capacity.

Who do I contact with AFCON 2027 tender questions?

All clarification questions should be sent to procurement@cafonline.com before the clarification deadline stated in each tender package. Important: CAF only shares Q&A responses with bidders who have submitted their Letter of Interest early — register your interest as soon as possible.

For our complete guide to AFCON 2027 broadcast rights see our media rights article. For business opportunities in tourism and hospitality that do not require formal CAF tender processes see our business listings page. For the complete tournament overview see our dates and schedule guide.

Tender notice details confirmed via CAF official portal (cafonline.com) and reporting from Sportcal, Inside World Football, NBS Sport, BiznaKenya, The Respondents, Arusha News, ChimpReports and AFCON PAMOJA 2027 official site. All tender registration and bidding is done via CAF’s official platform. This article will be updated as CAF announces additional tenders or successful bidders.

AFCON 2027 Media Rights — CAF Opens Bidding, September 14 Deadline and What It Means for Fans

AFCON 2027 Media Rights — Key Facts

• Tender opened: August 2026 by CAF
• Bidding deadline: 5:00 PM Cairo time, September 14, 2026
• Rights coverage: Sub-Saharan Africa broadcast partner
• Tournament format: 28 teams (expanded from 24)
• Tournament dates: 19 June – 17 July 2027
• Announcement expected: October–December 2026

Summary: CAF has opened bidding for AFCON 2027 broadcast rights with a September 14, 2026 deadline. The tender covers Sub-Saharan African broadcast rights for the 28-team tournament in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027. Existing global partners including beIN Sports, Canal+, SuperSport and New World TV are all expected to bid.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially opened the bidding process for AFCON 2027 broadcast rights, giving interested broadcasters and media companies until September 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM Cairo time to submit their bids. The tender covers one of Africa’s most valuable sports broadcasting properties and the announcement marks a critical milestone in the countdown to East Africa’s first AFCON in 51 years.

What CAF Is Selling

The AFCON 2027 media rights tender covers broadcast, streaming and digital distribution rights across Sub-Saharan Africa — the tournament’s most valuable and passionate viewing region. CAF has issued a request for proposals from parties interested in securing these rights, which will cover the tournament set to take place across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The tender includes:

• Live broadcast rights for all 52 tournament matches
• Highlights and news access rights
• Streaming and digital distribution rights
• Regional sub-licensing rights within Sub-Saharan Africa
• Commercial exploitation rights within the territory

Who Is Expected to Bid

Based on AFCON 2025 rights holders and existing CAF partnerships, several major broadcasters are expected to submit competitive bids for AFCON 2027:

The bidding will likely be most competitive between New World TV (the incumbent Sub-Saharan rights holder) and SuperSport (which is actively trying to regain the rights it held for three decades before losing them ahead of AFCON 2023).

Why This Matters for Fans

The outcome of the tender directly affects how millions of African fans will watch AFCON 2027. Different broadcasters mean different subscription requirements, different commentary languages and different levels of free-to-air access. For fans in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda — the host nations — the outcome is particularly important because it determines what package or subscription local fans will need to follow the tournament happening on their doorstep.

Key questions the tender will answer over the coming weeks:

• Will there be free-to-air coverage in East Africa? National broadcasters TBC Tanzania, KBC Kenya and UBC Uganda are expected to secure at least partial free-to-air rights for host nation matches
• Will SuperSport reclaim Sub-Saharan rights? After losing exclusive rights to New World TV for AFCON 2023–2025, MultiChoice is under pressure to secure AFCON 2027 or risk losing subscribers
• What will streaming look like? CAF has been expanding its own digital platform CAF TV and may retain some streaming rights for direct-to-consumer distribution

Where Fans Will Watch — Confirmed and Expected Broadcasters

While the Sub-Saharan African rights are still under tender, several international broadcasters are already expected to hold rights based on their AFCON 2025 deals and existing multi-year CAF agreements:

See our complete AFCON 2027 broadcast guide by country for the full country-by-country picture of how to watch the tournament wherever you are.

The Commercial Backdrop — Why AFCON 2027 Rights Are Valuable

AFCON 2027 will be the most commercially significant edition of the tournament ever staged. Three factors combine to make the media rights particularly valuable:

1. Expanded format. With 28 teams instead of 24, there are more matches, more national fan bases engaged and more broadcast content over the tournament window. The expansion adds four additional group stage matches, increasing total tournament content.

2. East African hosting. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda combined represent over 150 million people — a massive audience that has never had a home AFCON to follow. Broadcaster demand from the region will be unprecedented.

3. Global African diaspora. AFCON 2025 in Morocco was watched by record international audiences, particularly in France, the UK, the Netherlands, the US and the Middle East where African diaspora communities are concentrated. Every rights holder in these markets has reason to bid for AFCON 2027.

What Happens Next — Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I watch AFCON 2027?

Official broadcast rights for AFCON 2027 are still being finalised. Based on existing CAF partnerships, expected broadcasters include SuperSport, Canal+, beIN Sports and New World TV in Africa; beIN Sports in MENA and North America; Sportdigital and DAZN in Germany; Ziggo Sport in the Netherlands; Channel 4 or Sky Sports in the UK; and FanCode in India. See our complete broadcast guide by country.

When will AFCON 2027 broadcast rights be confirmed?

CAF’s tender for Sub-Saharan African rights closes on September 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM Cairo time. Successful bidders are typically announced within 8 to 12 weeks of the deadline — meaning full rights confirmation is expected between October and December 2026.

Will AFCON 2027 be free to air in the UK?

AFCON 2025 was broadcast free to air on Channel 4 in the UK — the first time the tournament had been free to air in the country. Whether Channel 4 or another UK broadcaster secures free-to-air rights for AFCON 2027 has not yet been confirmed.

Will SuperSport show AFCON 2027?

SuperSport lost exclusive Sub-Saharan African AFCON rights ahead of AFCON 2023 after failing to secure a sub-licensing agreement with New World TV. MultiChoice is expected to bid competitively for AFCON 2027 rights but the outcome depends on CAF’s tender decision expected in October–December 2026.

Where can I watch AFCON 2027 in Tanzania?

Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) is expected to secure at least partial free-to-air rights for AFCON 2027 as the host nation broadcaster. Azam TV is expected to hold pay-TV rights. The final broadcast structure will be confirmed once CAF’s tender decision is announced.

How much are AFCON 2027 broadcast rights worth?

CAF does not publicly disclose broadcast rights fees. However, industry analysts estimate the Sub-Saharan African rights package alone is likely to attract bids in the tens of millions of US dollars given the tournament’s expansion to 28 teams and the East African hosting market opportunity.

For the complete country-by-country broadcast guide see our AFCON 2027 broadcast guide. For the tournament dates and format see our dates and schedule guide. For the 28-team expansion details see our format expansion article. For tickets see our tickets guide.

Bidding process confirmed by CAF via official tender announcement, August 2026. Sources: Morocco World News, Sportcal, OkayAfrica, Africa Soccer. Expected broadcasters based on AFCON 2025 rights holders and existing CAF partnership network. This page will be updated when CAF announces the successful bidders for AFCON 2027 broadcast rights.

AFCON 2027 Expands to 28 Teams — New Format, Groups and What It Means

AFCON 2027 — Key Facts

• 28 teams — expanded from 24
• 7 groups of 4 teams in the group stage
• 16 teams reach the Round of 16
• Hosts: Tanzania 🇹🇿, Kenya 🇰🇪, Uganda 🇺🇬
• Dates: 19 June – 17 July 2027
• Announced: July 23, 2026 by CAF President Patrice Motsepe

Summary: AFCON 2027 expands to 28 teams in seven groups of four, confirmed by CAF on July 23, 2026. The top two teams from each group plus the two best third-placed teams advance to a 16-team knockout stage. Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda host the tournament from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

AFCON 2027 will feature 28 teams — confirmed by CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe on July 23, 2026, expanding the tournament from 24 teams for the first time since 2019. The 28 teams will be divided into seven groups of four, with the top two from each group advancing automatically to the Round of 16 alongside the two best third-placed teams across all seven groups. This is everything you need to know about what changes, what stays the same and what it means for qualifying and fans attending in East Africa.

How the New 28-Team Format Works

Under the new structure, 28 teams will be divided into seven groups of four during the group stage. The top two teams from each group will automatically progress to the Round of 16, while the remaining two spots will be awarded to the two best third-placed teams across the seven groups. That produces 16 teams for the knockout phase — the same Round of 16 structure used since AFCON expanded from 16 to 24 teams in 2019.

Old format vs New format

The critical difference from the old format: finishing third is now far more dangerous in 2027. In the 24-team format, four of the six third-placed teams advanced. In the 28-team format, only the two best third-placed teams from seven groups advance — meaning five third-placed teams go home. Every point in the group stage matters more than ever.

Why CAF Expanded AFCON to 28 Teams

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe announced the decision during a media briefing in Johannesburg, revealing that the expanded format is part of the continent’s continued efforts to grow Africa’s biggest football competition. The move mirrors expansions seen in other major international tournaments — the men’s FIFA World Cup has expanded to 48 teams from 2026, while the European Championship grew from 16 to 24 teams in 2016.

Four additional African nations will now qualify for the finals — opening the door for emerging football countries that have historically struggled to break through the 24-team ceiling. Nations like Somalia, Eritrea and South Sudan, who are attending their first or second qualifying campaigns, now have a more realistic path to the finals.

What It Means for Qualifying

The qualifying campaign structure — 12 groups of 4 teams across three international windows — was drawn in Cairo on 19 May 2026, before the 28-team expansion was announced. CAF says it will clarify the qualification system soon. The most likely outcome is that additional qualifying spots go to the best-performing third-placed teams across the 12 groups. CAF is expected to confirm the exact mechanism before qualifying begins on September 21, 2026.

What does not change: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda remain automatically qualified as co-hosts. All three host nations will still play in the qualifying campaign but their places at the finals are guaranteed regardless of results.

What It Means for the Biggest Nations

For the traditional powerhouses — Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon — the expansion changes very little. These nations qualify for AFCON regularly and comfortably. The expansion matters most for nations on the edge of AFCON qualification, opening a meaningful opportunity for emerging football nations to reach the finals for the first time.

AFCON 2027 Is Also the Last Biennial Edition

CAF confirmed that the Africa Cup of Nations will be staged again in 2028 before transitioning to a four-year cycle thereafter. This makes AFCON 2027 doubly historic — the first 28-team edition and the second-to-last time the tournament is held every two years.

• AFCON 2027 — Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda — 28 teams — June 19 to July 17, 2027
• AFCON 2028 — host and format TBC — final biennial edition
• AFCON 2032 — first quadrennial edition — 4-year cycle begins

Frequently Asked Questions

How many teams are in AFCON 2027?

28 teams. CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirmed the expansion from 24 to 28 teams on July 23, 2026 at a press conference in Johannesburg. This is the largest AFCON field ever assembled.

How does AFCON 2027 work?

28 teams are split into seven groups of four. The top two teams from each group automatically advance to the Round of 16 — that is 14 teams. The two best third-placed teams from across the seven groups also qualify, completing a 16-team knockout stage of Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals and Final.

How many groups does AFCON 2027 have?

Seven groups of four teams — up from six groups of four at AFCON 2025. Each group plays a round-robin format with every team playing three matches.

How does the 28-team expansion affect AFCON 2027 qualifying?

Four extra teams will qualify for the tournament finals. CAF is expected to announce how these four additional spots are distributed across the existing 12 qualifying groups before qualifying begins on September 21, 2026. The three co-hosts — Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda — qualify automatically regardless.

How many teams qualify from each group at AFCON 2027?

The top two teams from each of the seven groups qualify automatically — 14 teams total. Two additional spots go to the two best third-placed teams across all seven groups, bringing the Round of 16 to 16 teams.

Is AFCON 2027 the last biennial tournament?

No — AFCON 2028 will be the final biennial edition. From 2032 the tournament moves to a four-year cycle. AFCON 2027 is the second-to-last edition to be held every two years.

Where is AFCON 2027 being held?

Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda — the first time AFCON has been hosted by three nations simultaneously and the first time the tournament returns to East Africa since Ethiopia hosted in 1976. The tournament runs from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

When does AFCON 2027 start?

June 19, 2027. The final is on July 17, 2027.

For the complete tournament guide see our dates and schedule guide. For all qualifying groups see our groups guide. For the full qualifying schedule see our qualifying schedule. For tickets see our tickets guide. For the predictor tool see our AFCON 2027 bracket predictor.

Expansion confirmed by CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe at a press conference in Johannesburg on July 23, 2026. Sources: Africanews, Morocco World News, Adomonline, Africa Soccer, Pulse Ghana, Citi Sports Online. Qualification structure details pending official CAF confirmation — this page will be updated immediately when CAF announces the revised allocation. Qualifying begins September 21, 2026.

AFCON 2027 Match Day Tips — 15 Things Every FanNeeds to Know Before Attending

Attending AFCON 2027 in Tanzania, Kenya or Uganda is a once-in-a-generation experience — East Africa’s first tournament in 51 years, seven stadiums, three countries, 24 nations. But getting the most out of it requires preparation that goes beyond buying a ticket. These are the 15 things every fan needs to know before match day.

1. Register Your CAF Fan ID Before Anything Else

Your match ticket is linked to your Fan ID — the CAF registration system that verifies your identity at the gate. Without a registered Fan ID you cannot complete a ticket purchase, and without your Fan ID active on match day you cannot enter the stadium. This is not optional and it is not quick to fix at the last minute.

Register now at tickets.cafonline.com — even if official ticket sales have not opened yet. Registration is free and takes 10 minutes. The name on your Fan ID must match your passport or national ID exactly. Do this before you do anything else.

2. Get a Visa Card — It Gets You Tickets 48 Hours Early

CAF partners with Visa for exclusive presale access. Visa cardholders get 48 hours to buy tickets before the general public. At AFCON 2025 in Morocco the most popular matches sold out during the Visa presale window before general sales even opened. If you do not have a Visa card and you want tickets to a semi-final or a Nigeria, Morocco or Egypt match — get one before official sales open. Mastercard and other cards do not qualify for the presale.

3. Screenshot Your Ticket Before Leaving Your Hotel

Mobile signal near a 60,000-capacity stadium on match day is unreliable. Data networks get overwhelmed. The CAF ticketing app may load slowly or not at all when you need it most. Screenshot your ticket and your Fan ID confirmation before you leave your hotel. Have them in your camera roll — no internet required. Email them to yourself as a backup.

4. Download Bolt Before You Land

Bolt is the primary ride-hailing app across Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Use it for every journey to and from the stadium — do not use unlicensed taxis, do not walk near stadiums at night, do not flag down vehicles on the street. Download Bolt before you board your flight to Tanzania. Set up your account and add your payment method in advance. On match day the app will be busy — having a pre-existing account means faster booking.

5. Book Your Return Bolt Before Kick-Off — Not After

This is the single most important practical tip in this entire guide. When 60,000 fans simultaneously try to book a Bolt after the final whistle, wait times spike and prices surge. Book your return journey before kick-off — either schedule a pickup for approximately 20 minutes after the expected full-time, or have the app open and ready to book the instant the final whistle goes. Fans who do not do this wait 45 to 90 minutes for a car. Fans who do this are back at their hotel before the post-match rush begins.

6. Leave Your Hotel Earlier Than You Think You Need To

Dar es Salaam traffic is unpredictable. On AFCON 2027 match days it will be worse than anything the city has seen. The rule is simple: whatever time you think you need to leave, subtract 45 minutes. If you think you need to leave at 17:00 for a 20:00 kick-off, leave at 16:15. Gates open 2 hours before kick-off. Arriving 90 minutes before kick-off is comfortable. Arriving 30 minutes before is stressful. Arriving at kick-off means you miss the atmosphere that makes AFCON worth attending.

7. Bring a Power Bank — A Full One

A match day at AFCON 2027 lasts 4 to 5 hours from leaving your hotel to returning. Your phone is your ticket, your navigation, your camera and your Bolt. Three hours of stadium use, photography, messaging and navigation will drain most smartphone batteries to under 20%. A dead phone on match day means no Bolt home. Bring a power bank — a large one, fully charged the night before.

8. Withdraw TZS Before You Leave Your Hotel Area

ATMs near stadiums are unreliable on match days — queues are long, machines run out of cash and network failures are common. Withdraw Tanzanian Shillings from ATMs in Msasani, Masaki or your hotel area before you travel to the stadium. Stadium food, drinks and merchandise vendors prefer cash. Carry enough for the match day but do not carry your entire travel budget — keep the rest in your hotel safe.

Approximate match day cash needs: 15,000–40,000 TZS depending on food and drink consumption. See our complete money guide for ATM locations and currency tips.

9. Buy a Local SIM Card at the Airport

Your home SIM card will work in Tanzania on roaming — at rates that will shock you when you get home. A Vodacom Tanzania SIM bought at Julius Nyerere International Airport costs approximately 2,000 TZS and gives you local data rates for Bolt, maps, WhatsApp and the CAF ticketing app throughout your stay. Buy it in arrivals before you exit the airport. It takes 10 minutes and saves significant money over your entire trip. See our SIM card guide.

10. Eat Before You Go — Do Not Rely on Stadium Food

AFCON 2027 stadium concessions will be operating at full capacity but a 60,000-person crowd creates queues that can take 30 minutes to clear during half-time. Stadium food is also significantly more expensive than the same food purchased outside. Eat a proper meal at your hotel or a restaurant near your accommodation before you travel. Bring sealed snacks if you need something during the match. The best meal of your AFCON 2027 trip will not be inside a stadium.

11. Dress for the Weather — It Is Hotter Than You Expect

Dar es Salaam in June and July is 28 to 32°C with high coastal humidity. Inside a full stadium with 60,000 people the temperature rises further. Wear light, breathable clothing regardless of what your team’s kit looks like. Bring sunscreen for afternoon kick-offs — the East African sun is strong even in the “cooler” June-July period. For evening matches a very light layer is worth having for after the match when temperatures drop slightly.

Arusha is significantly cooler — 18 to 25°C at altitude. A light jacket or layer is worth packing if you are attending Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium matches.

12. Know Which Fan Zone to Use After the Match

Do not go directly from the stadium to your hotel after every match. The post-match fan zones are where AFCON 2027 comes alive — fans from 24 nations celebrating or commiserating together in a way that only happens at a continental tournament. In Dar es Salaam the Slipway at Msasani Peninsula is the main fan hub — large screens, food, drinks and a coastal atmosphere that runs well after midnight on match nights. See our nightlife guide for the full post-match options.

13. Watch Matches You Are Not Attending

You cannot attend every match. But you can watch every match — AFCON 2027 will be broadcast on large screens at fan zones across all three host cities. A group stage match on a big screen at the Slipway with a cold Kilimanjaro beer, surrounded by fans from Algeria, Nigeria and Morocco — this is also AFCON 2027. Do not spend your non-match days in your hotel room.

See our complete broadcast guide for how to watch every match on TV and streaming in your home country and at the fan zones in Tanzania.

14. Move Between Host Cities — It Is Easier Than You Think

AFCON 2027 spans three countries but internal travel is straightforward. Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar is 25 minutes by flight or 2 hours by fast ferry. Dar es Salaam to Arusha is 1 hour by flight. Nairobi to Dar es Salaam is 1 hour by flight. A fan with 10 days in East Africa can realistically attend matches in two or three different cities and still have time for a Zanzibar beach day or a Serengeti safari morning.

See our flights guide for the full internal route options.

15. Respect the Culture — It Makes Everything Better

Tanzania is a welcoming, safe and hospitable country — but it is not a theme park built for football fans. A few things worth knowing:

• Greet people — “Habari” (how are you) and “Asante” (thank you) in Swahili go a long way. Tanzanians appreciate the effort even if your pronunciation is imperfect. See our Swahili phrases guide.
• Dress modestly away from beach areas — Tanzania is a conservative country outside of tourist zones. Short shorts and sleeveless tops are fine near the beach and at the stadium but not in markets, mosques or local areas.
• Bargain at markets, not at restaurants — haggling is expected and normal at craft markets. It is not appropriate at restaurants, hotels or formal shops.
• Ask before photographing people — always ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially in non-tourist areas.

The fans who have the best AFCON 2027 experience will not be the ones who planned every minute — they will be the ones who showed up curious, respectful and ready to let East Africa surprise them.

For the complete match day guide for Benjamin Mkapa Stadium specifically see our stadium match day guide. For accommodation in Dar es Salaam see our accommodation guide. For the complete safety guide see our safety guide. For tickets see our tickets guide.

Match day tips based on AFCON 2025 fan experience reporting, CAF official ticketing guidelines and local knowledge from Dar es Salaam. Stadium traffic and journey time estimates based on Dar es Salaam road network and AFCON 2025 precedent. Currency amounts correct as of August 2026.

Tunisia AFCON 2027 — Carthage Eagles Fan Guide to Qualifying, Tanzania and the Road to Glory

Tunisia are one of North Africa’s most consistent AFCON performers — five titles, 24 tournament appearances, and a squad built around some of the most technically gifted players the continent has produced in a generation. The Carthage Eagles arrive at AFCON 2027 in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda with unfinished business — they have not lifted the trophy since 2004 and their golden generation is running out of time. This is the complete guide for Tunisian fans following the Eagles to East Africa.

Tunisia AFCON 2027 Qualifying — Group H

Tunisia, Uganda, Libya and Botswana make up Group H of the AFCON 2027 qualifiers. Tunisia are favourites to qualify but Uganda’s recent progress and Botswana’s improving competitiveness are expected to make the group highly competitive. Uganda are already qualified as co-hosts — meaning Tunisia are effectively competing for the one remaining qualification spot.

Tunisia’s Qualifying Fixtures — Full Schedule

The return clash between Uganda and Tunisia on March 22 2027 could ultimately determine the group winners. Tunisia should qualify comfortably — but the Libya away fixture and the Uganda away trip are the ones to watch. Libya have caused upsets in North African derbies before and the away atmosphere is always challenging.

Tunisia’s AFCON Record — Five Titles, 24 Appearances

Tunisia’s sole AFCON title came on home soil in 2004 — a tournament they hosted and won, defeating Morocco in the final. Since then they have been one of African football’s most consistent qualifiers but have consistently fallen short of their potential in the knockout rounds. AFCON 2027 arrives with a squad that has the technical quality to go deep — the question has always been whether they can find the collective consistency that the 2004 generation had.

Key Players for AFCON 2027

Tunisia’s AFCON 2027 Prediction

Tunisia should qualify comfortably from Group H — the Libya fixtures are the only real risk. At the tournament itself, Tunisia are a realistic quarter-final to semi-final contender. They have the technical quality to beat any team on their day and a well-organised defensive structure that makes them difficult to break down. The gap between their talent level and their tournament results is the defining frustration of modern Tunisian football. AFCON 2027 may be the last chance for this generation to close it.

The summer calendar works in Tunisia’s favour — AFCON 2027 in June and July means European-based Tunisian players arrive fully rested rather than mid-season exhausted. The neutral East African ground removes any North African home advantage bias. If Tunisia are going to make a deep run in AFCON, 2027 sets up as well as any recent edition for them.

See our complete favorites guide and our full predictions article.

For Tunisian Fans Travelling to Tanzania

Getting from Tunisia to Tanzania

Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa is typically the most direct and affordable option for Tunisian fans. Turkish Airlines via Istanbul is an excellent alternative with strong connections. Book at least 6 months in advance — June and July is peak East African tourism season and AFCON 2027 will add significant demand to an already busy travel period.

Visa Requirements

• Tanzania eVisa — required for Tunisian passport holders. Apply at visa.immigration.go.tz — cost $50 USD, processing up to 10 working days. Apply at least 2 months before travel.
• Yellow fever certificate — Tunisia is not a yellow fever endemic country so the certificate is not mandatory for direct travellers from Tunisia. Confirm with your airline before travel, particularly if transiting through sub-Saharan Africa.

See our complete Tanzania eVisa guide.

Practical Tips for Tunisian Fans in Tanzania

• Language — Swahili and English are Tanzania’s working languages. Arabic is spoken in parts of Zanzibar’s Stone Town given its Omani heritage — Tunisian Arabic will not be identical but you will be understood. French is a useful backup in hospitality contexts.
• Currency — Tanzania uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Withdraw TZS at Julius Nyerere International Airport on arrival. USD is widely accepted at hotels and restaurants. See our money guide.
• Food — Tanzanian coastal cuisine carries spice influences from the Indian Ocean trade routes — cumin, cardamom and coriander appear throughout. Halal options are widely available given Tanzania’s large Muslim coastal population, particularly in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. The food culture will feel more familiar to Tunisian fans than to European visitors.
• Zanzibar — for Tunisian fans the Omani Arab architecture and spice culture of Stone Town will feel surprisingly familiar. A day in Zanzibar is worth the 25-minute flight from Dar es Salaam. See our Zanzibar guide.
• Transport — use Bolt or Uber exclusively in Dar es Salaam. See our safety guide.

Tickets — How Tunisian Fans Can Get Them

1. Register at tickets.cafonline.com now — mandatory before any purchase, even before sales open
2. Get a Visa card — gives 48-hour presale access before the general public
3. Official sales expected August–October 2026

See our complete ticket buying guide and our ticket prices guide.

For the complete AFCON 2027 qualifying schedule see our qualifying schedule guide. For the full tournament fixture list see our fixtures page. For all AFCON 2027 stadiums see our stadiums guide. For tickets see our tickets guide.

Group draw confirmed by CAF on 19 May 2026 in Cairo. Qualifying fixture schedule sourced from Sports Village Square, Africa Soccer and Wikipedia AFCON 2027 qualification page, May–June 2026. Tunisia AFCON record sourced from CAF official. Page will be updated as qualifying progresses.

AFCON 2027 Stadium Map

Explore all seven AFCON 2027 venues across Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Tap any stadium for details and directions.

For the full stadium guide see our complete stadiums article. For match tickets see our tickets guide. For city travel guides see Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar.