The qualification phase for the 2009 African Championship of Nations began in March 2008. These games did not count towards the FIFA rankings.
The inaugural edition of the competition featured eight teams.
North zone (1 seat)
Preliminary Round
First Round
Second Round
Zone West A (1 seat)
Preliminary Round
First Round
Second Round
Zone West B (1 seat)
Preliminary Round
First Round
Second Round
Central Zone (1 seat)
Preliminary Round
- <small>The Chadian Football Federation was suspended by CAF following a similar suspension by the FIFA due to the country's violation of the article guaranteeing the independence of FIFA member associations. Thus, the Chad national team was disqualified.</small>
First Round
Second Round
Southern Zone (2 seats)
Preliminary Round
First Round
Second Round
Central East Zone (1 seat)
Preliminary Round
First Round
Second Round
References