The continental showpiece is set to run from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Teams will have just over a month to prepare following the conclusion of the final qualifying round, which is scheduled to take place during the FIFA international window of October 20 to 28, 2025.
World Cup Qualification at Stake
WAFCON 2026 takes on added significance as it doubles as the primary qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
The competition offers a clear path to the global stage:
• The top four teams in the tournament will secure direct qualification to the 2027 World Cup.
• Two additional teams will have a crucial second chance to qualify through the inter-confederation playoffs.
The race for African supremacy and a spot in Brazil is now officially on!