The unpredictable situation with Morocco's preparations casts doubt on the holding of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which is set to start in less than two weeks.
According to the official schedule, the tournament organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is planned for the period from July 5 to July 26, 2025. This is already the second consecutive time that Morocco is supposed to host this event, but in recent weeks, alarming reports have emerged about possible organizational issues.
Luxolo September, head of the CAF communications department, stated that the matter is under consideration by the management, and a final decision will be announced in the coming days.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe previously emphasized the importance of the tournament, which is a key qualifying stage for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil, and expressed hope for it to take place as scheduled.
The situation has provoked a sharp reaction in the Republic of South Africa. Sports Minister Gert Oosthuizen noted that such uncertainty just days before the tournament is unacceptable and confirmed South Africa's readiness to quickly organize the competition on its own soil.
The tournament will feature 12 national teams (instead of 16). The reigning champion is the South African team, which defeated Morocco 2-1 in the final of the previous edition in 2022. The Nigerian team, holding the most titles in the tournament's history, last went home without a medal.
