The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially confirmed the postponement of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, bringing an end to weeks of speculation about whether the tournament would proceed as originally scheduled this month.
CAF announced on Thursday that the continental championship will now take place from 25 July to 16 August 2026, rather than the previously planned March 17 to April 3 window.
In an official statement, CAF said the decision followed consultations with key stakeholders, including FIFA and other competition partners.
“After discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAF decided to reschedule the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 to 25 July – 16 August 2026 to ensure the success of this important women’s competition, in the light of certain unforeseen circumstances,” CAF said.
CAF added that preparations in Morocco are continuing and expressed confidence that the tournament will be successfully staged despite the scheduling change.
The tournament carries major stakes beyond continental glory. WAFCON 2026 will serve as the African qualifying competition for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The four semi-finalists will earn automatic qualification for the global tournament.
Two additional teams will advance to the intercontinental play-off qualifiers.
The stakes are particularly significant for host nation Morocco, which has invested heavily in the development of women’s football in recent years. Disqualification from hosting the event could have jeopardized the country’s hopes of competing at the next World Cup.
The 2026 edition will mark a historic expansion of the competition, with 16 teams participating in the finals for the first time. The move reflects the rapid growth of women’s football across the African continent.
Among the expected contenders are:
Nigeria women’s national football team — defending champions after lifting the trophy in the 2024 edition
South Africa women’s national football team — winners of the 2022 tournament
Ghana women’s national football team — bronze medallists in the most recent edition
Additional debutant nations are also set to feature, highlighting the growing competitiveness of the women’s game across Africa.
During the uncertainty surrounding the tournament schedule, South Africa had indicated its readiness to step in as host if Morocco withdrew. However, CAF regulations stipulate that any country that relinquishes hosting rights could face automatic disqualification from the competition.
A similar situation occurred during the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, when Ivory Coast withdrew from hosting duties and Egypt stepped in at short notice.
Despite the delay, CAF insists the rescheduling will help ensure a stronger and more successful tournament. With expanded participation, high World Cup stakes, and growing investment in the women’s game, WAFCON 2026 is expected to be one of the most significant editions in the tournament’s history.
We Bring You The Best
