Oparanozie not happy with caf postponement of wafcon 2026

Former Super Falcons captain, , has voiced strong disappointment after the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was suddenly postponed just days before kickoff.

The tournament, originally scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3, 2026 in Morocco, has now been moved to July 25 to August 16, 2026, according to the (CAF).

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Oparanozie questioned why women’s football in Africa continues to face repeated setbacks.

“I’m worried and disappointed because this keeps happening with women’s football,” she said.

The former striker pointed out that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the women’s tournament was postponed while the men’s still went ahead in Cameroon.

According to her, the situation shows that women’s football still does not receive the same level of importance.

Oparanozie, who won four WAFCON titles (2010, 2014, 2016 and 2018) with Nigeria, also criticised CAF for relying too heavily on Morocco to host the competition.

“It’s disappointing that we’re depending so much on Morocco. CAF should start looking at other countries that can host if Morocco pulls out,” she added.

The sudden postponement could also affect players who had already begun intense preparations for the tournament. National teams like Nigeria, Cameroon and Ghana had scheduled training camps and international friendlies ahead of the competition.

Oparanozie warned that the uncertainty could hurt players both physically and mentally.

“They’ve put their lives on hold just to focus on this tournament, and prolonged uncertainty can be demoralising,” she said.

Despite the delay, the tournament remains crucial because it will also serve as the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, where the top four teams will secure tickets to the global event.