We've got a serious situation brewing in African women's football. The Women's Africa Cup of Nations is supposed to kick off in Morocco on March 17, but right now, nobody seems sure if that's actually going to happen.
CAF's communications boss Luxolo September took to X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday to address the growing concerns. "There has been several discussions for weeks. The matter is receiving urgent and high level attention," he said. That's CAF-speak for "we're scrambling to figure this out."
Here's the thing – Morocco has already hosted this tournament twice in a row. They were lined up for a third straight hosting gig. But rumors about them pulling out just won't go away, despite CAF president Patrice Motsepe insisting back on February 13 that everything was fine.
Why This Tournament Can't Be Postponed
Motsepe made it clear that changing dates isn't an option. Why? Because this tournament is more than just a continental championship. It's also the qualifying event for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. Move the dates, and you mess up the entire qualification pathway.
CAF expanded the tournament to 16 teams back in November, which was a surprise move. That means more matches, more logistics, and more pressure on whoever's hosting. For anyone betting on tournament futures, this uncertainty is a nightmare – you can't properly assess odds when you don't even know where teams will be playing.
South Africa Ready to Step In
South Africa has already thrown its hat in the ring as a backup host. And their sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, isn't holding back. He blasted Morocco on Wednesday for the uncertainty.
"We will not allow women to be treated in such a fashion," McKenzie said. He pointed out that South Africa has the stadiums and infrastructure ready to go. "We will never be held hostage by countries that have less than what we have."
It's worth remembering that Nigeria are the defending champions. They staged an incredible comeback to beat Morocco 3-2 in last year's final. Morocco also lost the men's AFCON final to Senegal in January, which might have something to do with their current hesitation.
Morocco is co-hosting the men's World Cup in 2030, so they clearly have ambitions on the global stage. But right now, with just 13 days until kickoff, African women's football is in limbo. CAF says they'll clarify things "in the coming days." For the sake of 16 teams preparing for the tournament, let's hope that means very soon.
