Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following the postponement of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The tournament was originally scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, but CAF announced on Thursday that the competition has been postponed and will now be held between July 25 and August 16.
CAF has also yet to confirm whether Morocco will remain the host nation or if a new host will be announced.
Reports circulating in the media suggest Morocco may withdraw from hosting the tournament after staging the previous two editions, while South Africa is reportedly considering stepping in. However, CAF has not confirmed any of these claims.
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Plumptre expressed clear disappointment over the late change, arguing that such a decision would be unlikely in other confederations or in men’s competitions.
“It just wouldn’t happen for other tournaments in women’s football, especially in men’s football,” Plumptre told the BBC.
The Al-Ittihad defender also stressed the importance of the upcoming tournament, noting that the 2026 edition will serve as a qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“The last WAFCON wasn’t less important because it wasn’t qualification for a World Cup, but obviously this is a chance for teams to qualify for the World Cup.”
Plumptre further pointed out that this edition of the tournament carries even greater significance as it will feature 16 teams for the first time, giving more nations the opportunity to compete and potentially secure World Cup qualification.
“It’s the first time the tournament will have 16 teams, all of which will want the chance to qualify for the World Cup, and that’s a big deal for many teams.
“Many teams haven’t even played at WAFCON before and have never had the opportunity to qualify for a World Cup. It also helps them financially.”
CAF, however, explained that the postponement will allow both the governing body and the host nation to better prepare and organise the competition.
Nigeria are the defending champions, having claimed their 10th WAFCON title last year after defeating hosts Morocco 3–2 in a thrilling final.
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