Morocco’s Hosting of Women’s AFCON in Jeopardy as Tournament Approaches. City, Country — Less than two weeks before the kick-off of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), uncertainty looms over Morocco’s ability to host the tournament.
According to reports, Morocco has warned it may struggle to meet the required timelines, citing heavy scheduling and stadium renovation projects as potential obstacles.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has assured that the situation is being addressed with urgency and that a clarification is expected in the coming days.
The tournament, scheduled to begin on March 17, is not only a major event in its own right but also serves as a qualifying event for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. CAF president Patrice Motsepe has emphasized that the dates of the tournament will not be changed.
The uncertainty has left qualifying teams in a logistical vacuum, with South Africa stepping forward to offer its support. South Africa’s sport minister criticized Morocco for the late notice, stating that the country’s status as host had been left in doubt just 13 days before the tournament’s scheduled start.
In an unexpected turn last November, the CAF expanded the women’s tournament to include 16 teams.
Nigeria, the defending champion, secured a victory over Morocco in last year’s final, 3-2. Further details regarding the hosting situation are awaited, with the fate of the tournament hanging in the balance.
