from AHMED MOOLAH in Cairo, Egypt
Egypt Bureau
CAIRO, (CAJ News) – THE Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualification race has already produced surprises, but Friday (today) marks a change of tempo.
The first two qualifying matchdays have finished, meaning there are no AFCON points at stake this weekend.
Instead, several African nations use international friendlies to test squads, tactics and emerging players before qualification resumes in November.
CAF confirms that the 2027 tournament will feature 24 finalists in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Friday’s African international programme includes DR Congo v Uganda, a useful examination for two teams developing their squads.
DR Congo have made a perfect start to AFCON qualifying, while Uganda’s recent competitive campaign has been less convincing.
The Leopards therefore enter with greater momentum, although friendlies provide coaches with opportunities to experiment.
Saturday brings heavyweight opposition as Côte d’Ivoire face Cameroon.
The Elephants began qualifying with victories and remain among Africa’s established powers, while Cameroon possess the tournament pedigree and individual quality to make this a compelling contest.
Côte d’Ivoire’s attacking players will be expected to provide the cutting edge, while Cameroon’s physical midfield and defensive experience could make the match close.
Burkina Faso travel to Argentina, an enormous test for the Stallions.
Their organised approach and disciplined midfield can trouble stronger opponents, but Argentina’s quality makes this a particularly demanding assignment.
Namibia visit Russia, with the Brave Warriors seeking improvement after losing to Comoros.
Sunday is the standout day.
Senegal meet Comoros in Marseille, where Patrick Vieira continues reshaping the Lions of Teranga.
Nicolas Jackson, scorer in Vieira’s first AFCON qualifier, will be one to watch, while Comoros can draw energy from their large Marseille-born contingent.
Morocco face Mali after Ghana withdrew from their originally scheduled friendly.
Morocco started qualifying with two victories and possess major attacking and defensive weapons, including Noussair Mazraoui and Soufiane Rahimi.
Mali, however, defeated Cape Verde 3-1 in qualifying and should not be regarded as outsiders.
Egypt meet South Africa in Cairo, another fascinating heavyweight clash.
Egypt thrashed South Sudan 5-0, while South Africa defeated Eritrea by the same score.
Mohamed Salah remains the headline name, although his participation was still uncertain after concerns over the Juba pitch.
Finally, Bolivia host Gambia, whose remarkable 4-2 comeback against Ghana has transformed their mood.
The Scorpions have momentum, while Gambia’s attacking confidence could make them dangerous.
Across Africa, the message is clear: established giants remain central, but emerging nations are increasingly capable of disrupting them.
– CAJ News