CAF Postpones WAFCON

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be postponed and played in August.

The tournament was initially scheduled to take place in Morocco from 17 March to 3 April.

However, reports have suggested that Morocco was no longer keen to host the competition, with South Africa reportedly interested in stepping in as an alternative host.

South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie previously indicated that the country would be willing to host the tournament should Morocco withdraw.

Meanwhile, South Africa women’s national football team (Banyana Banyana), who reached the semi-finals of the previous edition, had already assembled for camp in preparation for the tournament. They will now have to regroup again in July ahead of the new dates.

CAF confirmed the decision in an official statement on Thursday.

“In October 2024, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) granted the hosting rights for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 to Morocco, and the tournament was scheduled to take place from 17 March to 3 April 2026,” CAF said.

“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 light of certain unforeseen circumstances.

“Preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 are underway, and all parties are confident that the tournament will be very successful.”