Beach Soccer Africa Cup Qualifiers Have Begun
The qualification process for the 2026 continental finals in Senegal is officially underway.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Africa
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The qualification campaign for the 2026 CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations kicked off on September 20, 2026. This two-round series will determine which seven teams join host nation Senegal in the upcoming final tournament.
Why it matters
These qualifying matches are essential to finalize the eight-team field competing for the continental championship. The tournament serves as a key showcase for talent within African beach soccer as teams vie for a spot in the finals.
The path to the finals involves a two-round process to fill seven open tournament slots. Twelve teams received exemptions from the opening stage, while others like Libya advanced directly to the second round.
The players
CAF
The Confederation of African Football serves as the administrative body for association football in Africa and organizes the continental championships.
Senegal
Senegal is the host nation for the 2026 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations and receives an automatic bid to the tournament.
The details
The competition began at the Blue Bay Beach Arena in Mauritius, though Kenya has officially withdrawn from the event. Teams must navigate two rounds of two-legged matches to secure their positions in the November tournament.
Timeline
September 20, 2026: The qualification campaign began with the first leg between Mauritius and Angola.
September 25 to 27, 2026: Teams compete in the return leg of the opening tie.
October 9 to 11, 2026: The first leg matches for the second round are scheduled.
October 16 to 18, 2026: The second leg matches for the second round occur.
November 7 to 15, 2026: Senegal hosts the continental finals tournament.
Travel Outlook
The tournament follows the established biennial rhythm of African beach soccer championships. This qualification cycle maintains the standard two-round structure used by the CAF to ensure competitive balance before the final event in Senegal.
Fans tracking the tournament should note that the final stage is set for November in Senegal. Travelers and supporters looking to attend the finals should monitor the results of the second-round matches to see which nations will join the host country.
The takeaway
The ongoing qualifiers represent a critical hurdle for teams hoping to participate in the continental tournament. Spectators should follow the remaining two-legged matches to identify the seven teams that will complete the final lineup in November.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming regional events, visit Africa.
Live Poll
Do you plan to watch the 2026 Beach Soccer AFCON qualifying matches?
