By Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has voiced disappointment over the postponement of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Nigeria women’s national football team star, who plays for Al-Ittihad Ladies FC, made the remarks in a video interview shared by Match of the Day on the BBC and monitored by AfrikTimes after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed the change in schedule.
CAF announced that the tournament, initially scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco, has been postponed and will now hold from July 25 to August 16, 2026.
Reacting to the development, Plumptre said such a situation would be unlikely in other major football competitions, particularly in the men’s game.
“It just wouldn’t happen for other tournaments in women’s football, and especially in men’s football. Last WAFCON wasn’t less important than this one just because it wasn’t qualification for a World Cup,” she said.
The former Leicester City Women defender also stressed the importance of the upcoming edition, noting that it will feature an expanded format with 16 participating teams.
According to her, the tournament presents a significant opportunity for many countries aiming to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time.
Plumptre added that the expanded format will also benefit several nations making their debut in the continental competition, providing both sporting and financial opportunities.
“Many of them haven’t even been in the AFCON before, never mind had the chance to qualify for a World Cup. It also helps them financially as well,” she said.
