CAF Postpones 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations to July-August Window

The Confederation of African Football has officially postponed the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, moving the tournament from its original March schedule to a new date between July and August.

In a statement published on its website on Thursday, the continental football governing body confirmed that the competition will now take place from July 25 to August 16, 2026. The decision follows consultations between CAF, FIFA, and other key stakeholders involved in organising the event.

The tournament was initially scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3, after Morocco secured hosting rights in October 2024.

CAF explained that the date change was necessary to address certain unforeseen circumstances and ensure the successful organisation of Africa’s premier women’s football competition.

“After discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAF decided to reschedule the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 to 25 July – 16 August 2026 to ensure the success of this important women’s competition, in the light of certain unforeseen circumstances,” the statement read.

The governing body expressed confidence that preparations remain on track and that the event will meet expectations.

The announcement comes amid growing concerns about tournament readiness. Prior to the postponement, several key arrangements, including venues for knockout rounds, accreditation processes for journalists, match officials’ workshops, and promotional activities, had yet to be finalised.

For defending champions Nigeria, the schedule shift may provide additional preparation time. The Super Falcons recently concluded a two-match friendly series against Cameroon in Yaoundé, losing the first leg 1-0 before securing a 3-1 victory in the return fixture.

The tournament also serves as Africa’s qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Under the qualification format, the four semi-finalists will secure automatic tickets to the global tournament, while another African side will have the opportunity to qualify through an intercontinental play-off.