Morocco Pulls Out of Hosting WAFCON as South Africa Steps In — Fallout from AFCON Loss to Senegal?

Morocco’s sudden withdrawal from hosting the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)—with South Africa stepping in as replacement host—has sparked a storm of controversy across African football. The timing has only fueled speculation: is this a delayed reaction to Morocco’s painful AFCON loss to Senegal?

Officially, no direct link has been acknowledged. But critics argue the sequence of events is hard to ignore. Morocco hosted AFCON amid high expectations, only to fall short in dramatic fashion. Weeks later, the country pulls out of hosting WAFCON, citing logistical and administrative concerns — explanations many fans find unconvincing.

Supporters of Morocco insist the decision has nothing to do with AFCON, arguing that hosting back-to-back major tournaments places an unreasonable burden on infrastructure and planning. They say Morocco is entitled to step back without being accused of bad sportsmanship.

Opponents see it differently. They describe the move as petulant and damaging, especially to women’s football, suggesting Morocco chose withdrawal over absorbing disappointment and moving on. To them, South Africa’s swift takeover exposes what they call a lack of commitment to the women’s game when prestige is no longer guaranteed.

The controversy has divided opinion across the continent: Was Morocco overwhelmed — or offended?
Was this pragmatism—or pride bruised by defeat?

As South Africa prepares to host WAFCON, the spotlight has shifted from celebration to suspicion. And the uncomfortable question remains unanswered: did AFCON heartbreak quietly derail WAFCON hosting — or is this just a coincidence dressed as controversy?

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