Women’s Africa Cup of Nations postponed to new dates

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed the postponement of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Women’s AFCON or WAFCON) until July and August, ending weeks of speculation over whether it would go ahead as planned this month.

The tournament serves as preparation for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where four African teams will automatically qualify, and another two will participate in the intercontinental qualifiers.

The WAFCON was originally scheduled to be played from March 17 to April 3, but hosts Morocco insisted on a change to the dates due to what CAF described as “unforeseen circumstances”.

“Following discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAF has decided to move the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 to July 25 – August 16, 2026 to ensure the success of this important women’s competition, in light of certain unforeseen circumstances,” CAF said in a statement on Thursday, without providing further details on the reason for the postponement.

“Preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 are in full swing and all parties are confident that it will be very successful.”

The number of teams participating in the final has been expanded to 16 for the first time, with Nigeria, the defending champions after lifting the trophy in the 2024 edition, played last year, also postponed.

Published on March 5, 2026