Caf Delays Wafcon 2026 Just 12 Days Prior to the Start Date

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has announced the postponement of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) 2026, just a mere 12 days before it was scheduled to commence in Morocco.

Reason for Postponement and New Dates

In a statement released on Thursday, Caf attributed the delay to “unforeseen circumstances,” rescheduling the games to take place from July 25 to August 16.

Originally set to be held from March 17 to April 3, this year’s tournament holds additional significance as it serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Reports concerning a possible shift in the hosting country had sparked concerns among teams and fans alike.

Morocco was due to host the Wafcon for a third consecutive time. However, doubts regarding the country’s willingness to host the tournament escalated following the chaotic scenes during the 2025 men’s African Cup of Nations (Afcon) final, where Morocco experienced a dramatic loss to Senegal.

Caf emphasized that the decision to postpone was made to “guarantee the success of this significant women’s competition.” The governing body indicated that preparations for the tournament were ongoing but did not confirm whether the host country would change.

The draw for the expanded 16-team group stage was conducted on January 15; however, Caf has yet to release a complete match schedule.

At the beginning of February, the South African Sports Minister had to clarify statements made by his deputy regarding South Africa’s potential takeover of hosting duties for Wafcon 2026.

The postponement has reignited discussions about Caf’s commitment to women’s football, especially significant as the 2020 Wafcon was entirely canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the 2021 Afcon faced rescheduling to early 2022.

The previous edition of Wafcon, held in July last year and won by Nigeria, was also delayed due to scheduling conflicts with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

This postponement adds to the growing concerns surrounding Caf’s management of continental tournaments, as Wafcon is the second competition to be moved at short notice within the past 14 months. Caf similarly postponed the 2024 African Nations Championship just 18 days prior to its commencement.

Former Player Voices Concerns

Disappointment Over Recurring Issues for Women’s Football

Following the Caf announcement, Desire Oparanozie, a former captain of the Super Falcons of Nigeria, expressed her deep disappointment regarding the continual setbacks for women’s football across the continent.

She noted, “I feel concerned and disappointed because this issue keeps arising with women’s football.” Oparanozie referred to the postponement of the Wafcon during the Covid-19 pandemic while acknowledging that the men’s tournaments continued.

She added, “It seems that, because it’s women’s football, it doesn’t receive the same level of attention.”

Morocco had successfully hosted the Wafcon in 2022, and the delayed 2024 version occurred in 2025, both of which saw impressive attendance figures and viewership throughout Africa.

“It’s disheartening that we rely so heavily on Morocco,” remarked Oparanozie, who has won the Wafcon four times with Nigeria. “Caf should begin exploring alternative nations that could step in should Morocco decide to withdraw.”

The postponement could have significant mental and physical repercussions for players who have been gearing up for the tournament. National teams, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana, have engaged in intensive training sessions and friendly matches, with Ghana’s team currently training in the United Arab Emirates.

Oparanozie highlighted player concerns: “They have dedicated considerable effort both mentally and physically. The uncertainty could have a demoralizing effect.”

Additionally, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, leading to flight cancellations and airspace closures, has made players anxious about their safety, with Ghana’s team seeking assurance from their country’s foreign mission.

“We are currently safe, and our mission is in contact with us, working to ensure our safety and will facilitate our departure as soon as our flights are rebooked,” confirmed Matilda Dzifo Dimedo, the team’s media officer. For now, the team plans to continue training in secure environments until they receive further updates on travel arrangements.