CAF confirmed that the tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco, has been moved from its original schedule of 17 March to 3 April 2026.

The competition will now be held from 25 July to 16 August 2026 after consultations with FIFA and other stakeholders.

In a brief statement, CAF said the change was necessary to ensure the smooth organisation of the tournament “in light of certain unforeseen circumstances.”

“In October 2024, the CAF granted the hosting rights for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (“WAFCON”) 2026 to Morocco and this tournament was scheduled for 17 March to 3 April 2026,” the statement read.

“After discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAFdecided to reschedule the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026, to 25 July – 16 August 2026; to ensure the success of this important women’s competition, in the light of certain unforeseen circumstances.”

“Preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 are underway and all the parties are confident that it will be very successful,” it added.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Black Queens remain in Sharjah, participating in the Pink Ladies Cup, a pre-tournament training camp in the UAE.

During the camp, the team recorded two convincing friendly victories, defeating Hong Kong women’s national football team and Russia women’s national football team 4–0 in both matches.

However, the team’s departure from the country remains uncertain after authorities suspended air travel in response to rising tensions in the region.

The players and officials are currently awaiting arrangements to enable them to leave the UAE safely after their final Pink Ladies Cup match against Tanzania women’s national football team.

Ghana heads into the next continental cycle with renewed confidence following their third-place finish at the 2024 Women’s AFCON in Morocco, a result that revived hopes of the team competing strongly among Africa’s elite.

Credit: CAF

In a statement issued by the telecommunications giants, Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, described the Black Queens’ emphatic 7–0 aggregate drubbing of the Cleopatra of Egypt as a testament to their hard work, determination, and unyielding fighting spirit.

“Your spectacular victory is not only a statement of intent but also a reflection of your teamwork and excellence. You have made the nation proud, and we celebrate this outstanding achievement with you,” Mr. Blewett said.

He also urged the team to remain focused and intensify their preparations for the continental showpiece, noting that the task ahead requires even greater dedication and discipline.

“As you look ahead to the tournament in Morocco, we encourage you to stay focused, disciplined, and committed to even harder training. The task ahead is great, but so is your potential,” he stated.

Reaffirming MTN’s continuous support for women’s football and Ghana’s national teams, Mr. Blewett likened the Black Queens’ fighting spirit to the company’s own “Can-Do Spirit,” which symbolizes resilience, belief, and the drive to achieve excellence.

“At MTN, we believe in the Can-Do Spirit — a spirit of resilience, excellence, and belief in possibilities. Just like MTN continues to connect millions and make dreams happen, we have absolute faith and confidence that the Black Queens will rise, shine, and deliver outstanding performances come WAFCON 2026,” the MTN CEO added.

The Black Queens’ qualification marks a remarkable comeback and reignites hopes for Ghana’s resurgence in women’s football on the continental stage, following their third place finish at the last edition, also held in Morocco earlier this year.

The Ghanaians hold a commanding 3-0 lead from last Thursday’s first leg in Ismailia but had initially boycotted training since arriving back in Accra on Friday, demanding that bonus arrears owed them be paid.

It took the intervention of Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Iddie Adams and Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Simeon-Okraku to convince the players that their money will be paid for them to return to training after a 2-day standoff.

Coach Lars Kim Bjorkegren led the team intense drills on Monday afternoon in readiness of an expected routine win on Tuesday to seal Ghana’s place at the 2026 tournament in Morocco which serves as a direct qualifier to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Below are some photos from Monday’s training session at the Accra Sports Stadium: