FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Africa begins its journey to Poland

The fourth and final FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026 African qualifiers officially get underway on Friday, 09 May.

A total of four nations will represent Africa at global showpiece set for August next year.

The first leg of qualifiers will be held on 09 and 11 May 9, with 16 and 18 May scheduled for the return legs.

First Round Schedule

Friday, 09 May

Gambia vs Cote d’Ivoire – Independence Stadium, Bakau

Sunday, 11 May

Rwanda vs Zimbabwe – Kigali Pelé Stadium, Kigali

Malawi vs Central African Republic – Bingu National Stadium, Lilongwe

South Sudan vs Djibouti – Juba Stadium, Juba

Togo vs Tunisia – Stade de Kégué, Lomé

Balanced Ties

The clash between Gambia and Cote d’Ivoire kicks off the qualifiers.

The Ivorians, bringing international experience, will be wary of a determined Gambian side eager to cause an upset at home.

Rwanda hosts Zimbabwe in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter. Both teams will be looking to gain an early advantage in their bid for qualification.

Malawi takes on the Central African Republic, a team that is steadily improving.  Backed by home support, the Malawians aim to gain the upper hand before the return leg in Bangui.

South Sudan faces Djibouti in a showdown between two developing nations in women’s football. This match presents a unique opportunity for both sides to showcase their potential.

Finally, Togo hosts Tunisia in what is expected to be a closely fought match.

The Tunisians, with a well-established footballing tradition, will face a motivated Togolese squad eager to make their mark.

A Demanding Road to Poland

The winners of this first round will advance to the second round, set for September 2025.

The four teams that emerge victorious in the fourth round will secure their tickets to the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.