Uncertainty has clouded preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) amid reports suggesting Morocco may be reconsidering its role as tournament host following the fallout from the recent men’s AFCON final.

Morocco hosted the men’s Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that ended in heartbreak for the Atlas Lions after a dramatic final defeat to Senegal in Rabat. The North Africans were on the brink of lifting the trophy before a controversial late penalty decision and a missed spot-kick proved costly.

With the score still level in stoppage time, Morocco were handed a chance to seal victory from the penalty spot. However, Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz failed to convert, executing a poorly taken Panenka. Senegal capitalised on the reprieve, as Pape Gueye struck a decisive goal early in extra time to hand the Teranga Lions the title.

The aftermath of the final was tense, with incidents involving players, officials, fans and journalists leading to disciplinary actions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) against both Morocco and Senegal.

Speaking on the situation, renowned sports broadcaster Wale Agbede suggested that many within Morocco felt unfairly treated after the final.

“The reactions after the AFCON showed a collective feeling of being hard done by,” Agbede told DAILY POST. “From the conduct of some journalists in the press room to the emotions of fans and players, it was clear there was a sense of injustice. But the truth is, Morocco had their chance to win the game. If the penalty had been scored, none of this would be happening.”

Agbede believes this lingering resentment may be influencing Morocco’s stance on hosting the 2026 WAFCON.

“In my opinion, this is unnecessary arrogance,” he said. “Morocco have done CAF many favours over the years, stepping in to host tournaments because they have the facilities. But that does not give them the right to act above the rules when things don’t go their way.”

He added that CAF retains the authority to discipline any federation, regardless of status or past contributions.

“No federation is bigger than CAF,” Agbede stressed. “If Morocco feel they should not have been punished, that mindset is unacceptable. The WAFCON will still be played, even if the experience isn’t as polished as it might have been in Morocco.”

Meanwhile, conflicting signals have emerged regarding the tournament’s status. Earlier this week, South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, stated that no official decision has been made to relocate the 2026 WAFCON, despite comments from his deputy indicating South Africa’s readiness to host if required.

The tournament is scheduled to kick off on March 17, with CAF yet to make a definitive announcement on the final hosting arrangements.