The proposed qualifying schedule for the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations has outlined a preliminary round in June 2027, followed by the group-stage campaign between September and November of the same year.
The preliminary round is proposed to run from June 7 to 15, 2027, involving the 12 lowest-ranked national teams in Africa. The teams are expected to compete in home-and-away fixtures, with the winners advancing to the group-stage qualifiers.
A total of 48 national teams are expected to participate in the group stage, which will comprise six matchdays.
The first four matchdays are proposed to take place between September 20 and October 5, 2027, while the final two matchdays could be held from November 8 to 16, 2027.
The qualifying campaign will determine the teams that secure places at the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations.
However, the proposed schedule should not be treated as an official CAF announcement. Further details, including the qualifying format, dates and official draw, are expected to be confirmed by the continental football governing body.
The 2028 edition will follow the 2027 AFCON, which is scheduled to be hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.
