CAN 2027: Eritrea returns to the continental stage after 19 years away

Africa 25 March 2026 at 07:52

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

This is a historic moment for Eritrean football. After nearly two decades away from qualifying battles, Eritrea is finally back in the preliminary round for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

This Wednesday, the Eritrean national team plays the first leg of the preliminary round for CAN 2027 qualification against Eswatini. This crucial two-legged tie marks the country’s official return to continental competition.

The last time Eritrea appeared in CAN qualifiers was back in 2008. Since then, the national team had vanished from the African football scene, hampered by structural challenges and repeated absences.

Nineteen years later, this comeback sparks hope and curiosity around a rebuilding squad, determined to write a new chapter in its history.

A match played on neutral ground

This first leg will be held at the Stade d'Honneur in Meknes, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT.

A unique setting for a clash already loaded with significance, where Eritrea will try to lay the foundation for a historic qualification.