Kenya placed in Group D of 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Although Kenya, together with Uganda and Tanzania, has already secured automatic qualification as a tournament co-host, the qualifiers will serve as a vital test of Harambee Stars’ readiness ahead of the continental showpiece.

For head coach Benni McCarthy, however, the draw carries an emotional twist.

Kenya’s meeting with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana sets up a fascinating contest of divided loyalties.

McCarthy, a South African football icon and Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading scorer, will now be tasked with guiding Harambee Stars against the country he once represented with distinction.

The fixture is expected to draw major attention, not only because of the quality of the opposition, but also because of the personal storyline surrounding the Kenyan tactician.

Group D promises to be highly competitive, with 1996 African champions South Africa joined by a strong Guinea side and an Eritrea team seeking to make its mark on the continental stage.

With Kenya already assured of a place at the finals, the remaining teams will be under pressure to fight for qualification, making every match in the group crucial.

CAF’s draw also separated the three East African co-hosts across different groups. Uganda will compete in Group H against Tunisia, Libya, and Botswana, while Tanzania has been drawn in Group L alongside Nigeria, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau.

Elsewhere, Morocco headlines Group A with Gabon, Niger, and Lesotho, while Senegal will face Mozambique, Sudan, and Ethiopia in Group J as the continent’s giants begin their push for a place at the 2027 finals.

The final rounds will be staged between March 22 and 30, 2027.