The 2026 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has been rescheduled just days before its original start date, creating uncertainty around one of Africa’s biggest women’s football tournaments.
The competition was initially set to kick off on March 17 and run until April 3. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a postponement only 12 days before the opening match, citing “unforeseen circumstances.”
The tournament is now scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 16. While Morocco was originally confirmed as host nation, it remains unclear whether the country will still stage the competition following the change.
Beyond continental glory, the stakes are higher than ever. The tournament will also serve as a direct qualification pathway for African nations aiming to reach the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Quick Facts
- Nigeria women’s national team are the defending champions and record holders, having won the title 10 times.
- The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.
- The four semi-finalists will secure direct qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
- Teams eliminated in the quarter-finals will compete for two spots in the inter-confederation play-offs.
Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 Final Draw
CAF conducted the final draw on January 16, setting up the following groups:
- Group A: Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya
- Group B: South Africa, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Tanzania
- Group C: Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi
- Group D: Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde
With the new dates confirmed and World Cup qualification on the line, the 2026 tournament promises to be one of the most exciting editions in the competition’s history.
Other continental qualifiers update
The global race to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is already underway in other confederations. In Asia, the Women’s Asian Cup has concluded, with Japan defeating Australia in a thrilling final. Both finalists secure direct qualification to the 2027 World Cup, alongside China and South Korea, who reached the semi-finals.
In Europe, World Cup qualification is still ongoing. Two matchdays have already been played, with teams across the continent competing in group stages to secure their spots in the tournament in Brazil.
Source: CAF
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