Overview
- The 22‑day Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opened in Morocco this week as a 16‑team event that also decides Africa’s direct qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
- CAF postponed the original March start, expanded the field from 12 to 16 teams and increased prize money, with the champion now due $2 million.
- Hosts Morocco began with a commanding 4-0 win over Kenya on Sunday, giving them an early advantage in Group A.
- South Africa, who arrived with a 26‑player squad, suffered a shock 2-1 opening defeat to Tanzania on Monday when Hasnath Ubamba scored an 87th‑minute winner.
- Key storylines to follow include player milestones such as Linda Motlhalo nearing 100 caps, participation of multiple NWSL stars that affects clubs back home, and the pressure on teams to reach the semifinal spots that guarantee World Cup places.