CAF Sets 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations Schedule in Morocco

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be staged in Morocco from 25 July to 16 August 2026. The tournament has been expanded to feature sixteen national teams for the first time, with a detailed group‑stage calendar released covering matches from 26 July through early August, followed by quarter‑finals, semi‑finals, and a final on 16 August.

South Africa’s women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, announced a 31‑player preliminary squad for the competition. Coach Desiree Ellis highlighted the goal of reaching the semi‑finals to secure a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The South African side has been drawn in Group B alongside Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Tanzania, with their opening match against Tanzania scheduled for 27 July.

The schedule and squad announcements mark a pivotal moment for women’s football in Africa as the continent prepares for a larger, higher‑profile tournament.