South Africa’s U17 national team, Amajimbos, have been handed a daunting task after being drawn into a highly competitive Group D for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

With ambitions of continuing their impressive rise and securing a place on the global stage, the young South Africans must first navigate a challenging group that features continental heavyweights Ghana and Senegal, alongside a strong Algeria side.

A Tough Road Ahead

Group D is widely considered one of the most competitive pools in the tournament, with all four nations possessing strong youth development systems. Amajimbos will need to be at their very best to secure one of the top two spots required to reach the knockout stage.

Defending Champions in Focus

Hosts Morocco come into the tournament as defending champions after defeating Mali in the previous final. It marked their first U17 continental triumph, and they will be eager to retain the title on home soil.

Morocco headline Group A, where they will face Tunisia, Egypt, and Ethiopia in their quest for a knockout spot.

Full Group Breakdown

The 16 participating nations have been divided into four groups:

Group A: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia

Group B: Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Uganda, DR Congo

Group C: Mali, Angola, Tanzania, Mozambique

Group D: Senegal, South Africa, Ghana, Algeria

The top two teams from each group will automatically progress to the quarter-finals.

Tournament Dates & World Cup Stakes

The competition is scheduled to run from May 13 to June 2, 2026, and is open to players born on or after January 1, 2009.

Beyond continental glory, there is even more at stake—the top 10 teams will qualify for the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, offering young talents the opportunity to shine on the global stage.