The delayed 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will begin in Morocco on July 26, bringing together 16 national teams in a tournament that will determine Africa’s champion while also serving as a key qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally scheduled for March, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) postponed the competition due to unforeseen circumstances. The tournament will now run until August 16, with 34 matches taking place across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca.
Defending champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons are aiming for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title. They have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and tournament debutants Malawi. Hosts Morocco, runners-up in the last two editions, will seek to capitalise on home advantage, while former champions South Africa and other emerging contenders will also compete for continental honours.
Beyond determining Africa’s best women’s national team, the tournament carries significant development value for the continent. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, creating opportunities for greater international exposure, increased investment and stronger commercial interest in African women’s football.
WAFCON has also become an important platform for showcasing emerging talent, strengthening youth participation and encouraging national football federations to invest in coaching, infrastructure and player development. Continued progress at the continental level is expected to improve Africa’s competitiveness on the global stage while expanding opportunities for female athletes across the region.
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