U-20 WWC (Q): Final 8 teams confirmed for World Cup qualifiers

The finish line is in sight for Africa’s rising stars in the CAF region. The dates for the fourth and final round of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers have been confirmed, with eight nations set for a high-stakes showdown in May.

At stake are four coveted tickets to the global showpiece in Poland. With only 180 minutes of football separating these teams from a World Cup debut or return, the continent is bracing for a month of high-octane drama.

The Final Hurdle: Fixtures and Dates For U-20 WWC Qualifiers

The first-leg encounters are locked in for 1–3 May 2026, with the decisive return legs following closely on 8–10 May 2026.

In a standout West African derby, Côte d’Ivoire will host Benin before travelling for the reverse fixture. Meanwhile, continental heavyweights Nigeria—under the guidance of Moses Aduku—will host Malawi in the first leg, with the return leg set for the intimidating atmosphere of Blantyre.

Ghana’s Black Princesses are set to welcome Uganda in their opening leg, while Cameroon’s Baby Lionesses will look to make home-ground advantage count at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo against a resilient Tanzania.

The U-20 WWC Story So Far: How They Got Here

The road to the final round of the U-20 WWC has been paved with upsets and dominant displays.

The Powerhouses: Nigeria secured their spot with a clinical 3-1 aggregate win over Senegal, while Cameroon flashed their title credentials by brushing aside Botswana 5-1 on aggregate.

The Goal Machines: Malawi arrives in the final round in frightening form after a 6-2 aggregate demolition of Guinea-Bissau. Benin also made a massive statement, dumping out Egypt with a 5-0 aggregate scoreline.

The Great Escapes: Ghana had to dig deep to overcome South Africa, securing a “clutch” 1-0 away win in Mbombela to progress 3-2. Tanzania needed nerves of steel to edge Kenya 3-1 on penalties after a deadlock.

The Giant Killers: Uganda produced arguably the shock of the third round, stunning Zambia with a 1-0 away win to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

The four aggregate winners from this final round will represent Africa on the world stage. The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup is scheduled to take place in Poland from 5 September to 27 September 2026.

For the players involved, May isn’t just about qualifying; it’s about making history.