Morocco to Host Continental Playoff for 2026 World Cup with Participation of Four African Teams
CAF (Confederation of African Football) has announced the full details of the matches planned for the continental playoff leading to the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the Moroccan capital, Rabat. This mini-tournament, involving four African teams, will feature fierce competition between Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria from November 13 to 16, 2025.
Matches will be held at two prominent stadiums in Rabat: the Principe Moulay Hassan Stadium and the Postal Stadium. This hosting opportunity represents a golden chance for Morocco to confirm its readiness to welcome major continental tournaments, providing fans with a unique sporting experience in these modern facilities.
The semi-finals will kick off on Thursday, November 13, 2025. The opening match will see Nigeria take on Gabon at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT), followed by the second match between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT).
The four teams will be vying for a place in the final, scheduled for Sunday, November 16, at the Principe Moulay Hassan Stadium at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT).
The draw to determine which stadium will host each match will take place on October 30, 2025. This draw will be a pivotal moment leading up to the matches, as everyone is eager to learn the specifics of the games and their venues. It is an important step in organizing a tournament that garners significant interest across the continent.
Winning this mini-tournament is key to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The victorious team will face new challenges in the final FIFA qualifiers set for March 2026, where they will compete fiercely with other teams to secure a spot in the World Cup. This event presents a golden opportunity for African teams to showcase their strength and competitiveness on the global stage.
As the tournament date approaches, expectations and excitement among African football fans intensify. Everyone is waiting to see which team will succeed in this fierce competition and represent the continent at the largest global sporting event.
Match 1: Nigeria vs. Gabon, 17:00 local time.
Match 2: Cameroon vs. the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 20:00 local time.
Final Match: Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 20:00 local time, Principe Moulay Hassan Stadium.
This tournament is seen as a strong test for all participating teams. It is not only about achieving the dream of qualifying for the World Cup but also represents a significant milestone in the teams’ preparations for upcoming continental competitions. The tournament offers a chance to highlight the skills of African players on a global level, potentially leading to the emergence of new stars in world football.
As the tournament draws near, anticipation continues to build among fans, with everyone eager to discover which team will emerge victorious and represent the continent in the biggest global sports event.
