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Backlash against the last-minute postponement of the 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations continues to grow, with Super Falcons players and coaches across the continent openly criticizing the decision African Football Confederation.
With the tournament delayed just 12 days before startSeveral leading figures in African women’s football say the move has not only disrupted logistics but also created a Serious psychological damage to players and coaches..
Ajibade leads the players’ indignation
Captain of the Nigeria women’s national football team, Rasheedat AjibadeHe was one of the first high-profile players to react publicly.
The striker, who plays in soccer clubs Paris Saint-Germain Womenshared his frustration shortly after CAF confirmed that the competition would no longer start in March.
On the social media platform
“African women’s football deserves better.”
Her reaction highlighted the widespread disappointment among players who had spent months preparing for the continental competition.
Babajide describes the situation as “shameful”
Another member of the Super Falcons team, Rinsola BabajideHe was even more forceful in his criticism.
He AS Roma Women The striker described the situation as deeply frustrating after extensive preparation for the tournament.
“It’s really embarrassing right now.”
Babajide also described the postponement as a “bitter pill to swallow” highlighting the emotional impact on players who had been advancing towards the competition for months.
He later suggested that the players’ strong reaction represents “in the face of growing demand for better governance and respect” for women’s football throughout Africa.
Ucheibe demands respect from the players
Midfielder Christy Ucheibe He also joined the criticism, stating that the players deserve greater recognition and professionalism from the governing bodies.
He SL Benfica (women) Star posted a strong response following the announcement.
“It’s actually disrespectful to what we represent! We deserve respect.”
Ucheibe resonates with many players across Africa who feel that women’s competitions often receive less organizational attention than men’s tournaments.
Plumptre questions CAF organization
Defender of the Super Falcons, Ashleigh Plumptré added his voice to the growing criticism, questioning how such an important tournament could be postponed so close to the start.
In an interview that circulated on social networks, the former Leicester City Women FC The player argued that similar disturbances would rarely occur in other competitions.
“This would not happen in other women’s soccer tournaments and especially men’s soccer.”
Plumptre also spoke about the importance of the upcoming tournament, which will feature 16 teams for the first time.
He highlighted that the competition offers smaller football nations a unique opportunity to compete at the highest level.
“Many teams have never even been to AFCON before, let alone had the opportunity to qualify for a World Cup.”
Despite the frustration, Plumptre acknowledged that players must adapt to the new schedule.
“All I can do is take it day by day and prepare as best I can.”
Coaches from across Africa join the debate
The criticism has not been limited to the players.
head coach of South Africa women’s national football team, Desiree EllisHe openly questioned the handling of the situation during a radio interview.
He suggested such a scenario would be unlikely in men’s football.
“Do you think this would happen in men’s football? After March 7 we will not be able to keep the players in the camp. It is not a FIFA date.”
She shared a broader perception within the sport that Women’s football competitions are not always managed with the same level of professionalism as men’s..
Equipment interruption and preparation cycles
The postponement of the tournament, initially scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026 in Morocco has forced teams to drastically readjust their preparation plans.
The competition will now take place. from July 25 to August 16.
From a sporting perspective, the delay could significantly impact performance levels.
Teams that had gained momentum at the beginning of the year must now recalibrate training cycles and tactical planning peak five months later.
Players who were in top form at the start of 2026 may struggle to maintain that level in August, while others could face injuries, conflicts with the club or fluctuations in form during the extended waiting period.
Read more: Here’s the real reason WAFCON 2026 was postponed just 12 days before the start
Read more: WAFCON 2026 postponement: criticism, concerns and a silver lining
Read more: REVENGE COMPLETE: How the Super Falcons showed Cameroon who’s boss in Yaoundé
There is a lot at stake for World Cup qualification
The stakes surrounding the tournament make the disruption even more significant.
The 2026 edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will also serve as FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 qualification pathwith the The top four teams secure automatic spots.
Critics have therefore called the postponement “lack of professional foresight” given the importance of competition for African nations seeking a place on the global stage.
