Players and coaches have expressed fury after the Confederation of African Football (Caf) postponed the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) just 12 days before it was due to start. The tournament, originally scheduled for 17 March to 4 April in Morocco, has been moved to 25 July–16 August 2026, despite Caf president Patrice Motsepe promising on 13 February that it would go ahead as planned.
The decision has disrupted preparations for several teams, including defending champions Nigeria, who had played friendlies against Cameroon in Yaoundé. Nigeria's Rinsola Babajide called the situation 'embarrassing', while an anonymous Nigeria Football Federation executive said the women's game is treated 'with so much levity'. South Africa coach Desiree Ellis questioned whether such treatment would happen in men's football.
Ghana's Black Queens were doubly affected, having been caught up in the Middle East war while at a tournament in the UAE. Coach Kim Björkgren described the experience as 'frightening', with players struggling to sleep due to bomb sounds. He expressed deep disappointment at the postponement after months of planning.
Journalists have also been hit financially. Guardian contributor Firdose Moonda had to buy a new ticket home from Morocco, with prices more than double. South Africa's sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, called on Caf to reimburse journalists' costs, adding that South Africa is ready to host the tournament if Morocco cannot.
Caf cited 'unforeseen circumstances' for the delay but did not elaborate when asked. The Moroccan football federation declined to comment. The tournament also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Women's World Cup.
