- the decision to adjust the schedule followed consultations with FIFA and other stakeholders
- The governing body explained that the new dates were chosen to ensure proper preparation
- The announcement comes after weeks of speculation about the tournament’s readiness
The Confederation of African Football has announced a change to the schedule of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, moving the tournament in Morocco from its earlier planned dates to later in the year.
In a statement released on Thursday, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the continental football body confirmed that the competition will now be held from July 25 to August 16, 2026, instead of the previously planned window of March 17 to April 3.
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Morocco secured the hosting rights for the tournament in October 2024. According to CAF, the decision to adjust the schedule followed consultations with FIFA and other stakeholders involved in organising the championship.
The governing body explained that the new dates were chosen to ensure proper preparation and the overall success of Africa’s premier women’s football tournament, noting that some unforeseen issues made the earlier timetable difficult to maintain.
CAF added that planning for the event is already underway and expressed confidence that the competition will be successfully delivered.
The announcement comes after weeks of speculation about the tournament’s readiness, as several logistical arrangements, including venues for knockout matches, media accreditation, and other organisational details, had yet to be finalised ahead of the earlier kickoff date.
For Nigeria’s women’s national football team, also known as the Super Falcons, the revised timetable could provide extra time to prepare as they aim to defend their title.
The team recently wrapped up a friendly series against Cameroon’s women’s national football team in Yaoundé, losing the first match 1–0 before responding with a 3–1 win in the second encounter.
Beyond the continental title, the tournament will also determine Africa’s representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will automatically qualify for the global tournament, while another African team will have the chance to secure a spot through an intercontinental playoff.
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