South Africa poised to replace Morocco as WAFCON host
South Africa is on the brink of taking over as the host country for the 2023 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), replacing Morocco.
The African football governing body, CAF, had earlier postponed the competition to 2024 due to a lack of interest from countries willing to host. Despite Morocco hosting the last edition, CAF had initially awarded them the rights to host the upcoming tournament as well.
However, Morocco’s enthusiasm for hosting WAFCON has cooled significantly since they secured the right to stage the 2025 African Cup of Nations. This shift in interest opened the door for South Africa to step in as a potential host.
South African Football Association (SAFA) President, Danny Jordaan, confirmed on Tuesday that they have already begun discussions with the government about hosting the competition. “We have submitted to CAF our intention for the next WAFCON. Of course, that WAFCON was awarded to Morocco,” Jordaan stated.
Jordaan expressed hope that CAF will respond positively to South Africa’s proposal, noting the significance of hosting the tournament at home. “If they say yes, it will give us the opportunity to defend our title at home, and it is a huge opportunity for Banyana Banyana,” he added.
South Africa last hosted WAFCON in 2010, where their national team, Banyana Banyana, finished third. In that edition, Nigeria’s Super Falcons claimed victory, defeating Equatorial Guinea in the final.
The next WAFCON is scheduled to take place from 6-25 July 2024. South Africa’s potential hosting of the tournament would not only provide a platform for them to defend their title but also bolster their reputation as a key player in African women’s football.
