Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026: What you need to know

South Africa players celebrate after defeating Morocco in the final of the women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) soccer tournament in Rabat, Morocco, Saturday, The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, July 26, after the tournament was postponed just days before its original March start date.

Morocco is hosting the competition for the third consecutive edition, with 16 national teams competing for the continental title, a record $2 million prize, and coveted places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Why This WAFCON Matters

This year’s tournament is the biggest in WAFCON history. A total of 34 matches will be played before the final on August 16.

Beyond the continental crown, the competition also doubles as a World Cup qualifier. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The four teams eliminated in the quarter-finals will have another chance to qualify through a separate play-off for the remaining two African spots.

The tournament was originally scheduled to begin on March 17, but the Confederation of African Football (CAF) postponed it less than two weeks before kick-off, citing unforeseen circumstances.

WAFCON 2026 Groups

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