Morocco has reportedly pulled out of hosting the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following lingering tensions from last year’s men’s AFCON final.
The North African nation came close to winning the men’s tournament but lost to Senegal after a controversial stoppage-time penalty. The referee’s decision allowed Pape Gueye to score, securing victory for the Teranga Lions. Morocco and Senegal were later sanctioned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over incidents during the match.
According to sports broadcaster Wale Agbede, Moroccan frustrations over the penalties and past CAF decisions contributed to their withdrawal. “Morocco feels hard done by and perhaps overestimates its standing because of its investments in CAF tournaments,” he said. “Their decision to pull out of WAFCON reflects a level of arrogance that is unacceptable.”
South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, however, noted that “no formal decision has been taken to relocate” the 2026 WAFCON, despite reports that South Africa could step in. The tournament is scheduled to kick off on March 17.
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