The Confederation of African Football has postponed the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations just 12 days before the tournament’s planned start. The decision ends weeks of uncertainty and leaves national teams without competitive fixtures during this international window.
Caf Confirms New Dates After Delays
Caf announced that the competition will now run from 25 July to 16 August 2026, shifting it away from the original March–April window. The governing body said the change followed discussions with Fifa and several key partners. Morocco, the host nation, requested the adjustment due to what Caf described as “unforeseen circumstances.” Caf did not reveal further details, which adds to the confusion surrounding the late postponement.
Impact on World Cup Qualification
The tournament plays a crucial role in Africa’s qualification path for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Four teams will secure direct qualification, while two more will enter the intercontinental playoffs. The delay disrupts preparations for several nations, including defending champions Nigeria, who lifted the trophy in 2024. This edition also marks the first time the finals expand to 16 teams, increasing competition and visibility for women’s football across the continent.
Caf Promises a Successful Tournament
Caf stated that preparations for the new dates are progressing well and expressed confidence in delivering a strong event. The organisation emphasised its commitment to ensuring the tournament’s success despite the unexpected shift. The postponement continues a pattern of scheduling challenges for Wafcon, which also faced delays in its previous edition. Teams must now adjust their plans and rebuild momentum ahead of the July kickoff.
