AFCON Qualifying – What’s Happening Right Now?

Fans across the continent are glued to their screens as the African Cup of Nations qualifiers heat up. Every game can change a group’s fate, and the drama is real – from surprise upsets to dominant performances by the usual powerhouses. If you’re looking for a quick rundown of where things stand, you’re in the right spot.

Current standings and upcoming fixtures

Right now the qualification round is split into ten groups, each with four or five teams. Group A, for example, has Senegal, Mauritania, Mozambique and Congo. Senegal sits on 10 points after three wins, while Mauritania is chasing with 4 points after a draw and a loss. The next match‑day sees Mauritania host Mozambique on October 14, a game that could pull them back into the race.

Over in Group C, Ghana leads with 9 points, but the Ivory Coast is just three points behind after a late‑game equaliser in their last encounter. Their clash on October 17 is a must‑watch – a win for either side could decide who grabs the top spot and a direct ticket to the finals.

Key players and teams to watch

Every qualifier has a few standout names. Keep an eye on Sadio Mané for Senegal; his pace and finishing have already netted five goals. Ghana’s star striker, Osman Benkocic, is another game‑changer – he’s on a goal streak that could push the Black Stars over the line. On the rising‑star side, Ethiopia’s midfielder, Getaneh Molla, is surprising opponents with his vision and has already assisted twice.

Coaches matter too. South Africa’s new boss, Hugo Sanchez, prefers an attacking style that’s already yielding three clean sheets. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s veteran coach, Gernot Röhrl, is trying a more defensive setup that has frustrated their rivals.

For fans who love to plan their watch‑list, the best way to stay updated is to follow the official CAF website or the team’s social media pages. Most games are streamed live on local broadcasters and some on free online platforms, so you won’t miss a single goal.

Finally, if you’re making predictions for the next round, look beyond the big names. Teams like Zambia and Tanzania have shown they can pull off wins against stronger sides, especially when playing at home. Those surprise results often decide who qualifies directly and who drops into the playoff round.

That’s the quick snapshot of AFCON qualifying as of now. Keep checking back for updated tables, injury news, and tactical shifts – the road to the African Cup of Nations is a marathon, not a sprint.