Morocco has once again demonstrated its ability to stage major football events on the African stage.
Following the conclusion of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Morocco for its successful organization of the tournament and highlighted the country’s contribution to the continued growth of women’s football.
Recognition From FIFA
Infantino congratulated Morocco, CAF, the participating teams, and the supporters for contributing to what he described as a standout edition of the continental championship.
The FIFA president also expressed his appreciation to CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Royal Moroccan Football Federation President Fouzi Lekjaa, alongside everyone involved in delivering the tournament.
The recognition adds another international endorsement to Morocco’s growing reputation as a destination for major football competitions.
A Landmark WAFCON in Morocco
The 2026 edition marked a new chapter for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, becoming the first tournament to feature 16 teams.
The competition also carried additional importance as Africa’s qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, giving every match added significance.
With modern stadiums, strong infrastructure, passionate supporters, and an expanding football culture, Morocco provided a fitting stage for the continent’s leading women’s teams.
Cameroon Make History
The tournament ultimately produced a historic champion, with Cameroon claiming their first-ever WAFCON title.
The Indomitable Lionesses defeated Malawi 3-0 in the final in Rabat, creating a memorable moment for a nation celebrating its first continental crown.
Infantino congratulated Cameroon on their achievement, emphasizing the joy their historic victory brought to their football-loving supporters.
Malawi’s Remarkable Journey
Malawi also created one of the tournament's most inspiring stories by reaching the final in their first-ever WAFCON appearance.
Despite entering the competition ranked 151st in the world, the Malawian side produced a remarkable run that included victories over established opponents such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Algeria.
Infantino praised the players for inspiring supporters at home and beyond Africa, reminding them that their extraordinary journey was something to be proud of.
Morocco’s Growing Football Legacy
For Morocco, the successful tournament represents another milestone in a rapidly expanding football legacy.
The country has increasingly become a major destination for continental competitions, with its modern infrastructure and passionate football culture providing an ideal environment for showcasing the growth of the women's game.
Infantino's recognition further reinforces Morocco's reputation for delivering football events on a major international stage.
Looking Toward the World Cup
The tournament also finalized Africa's qualification picture for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Morocco, Cameroon, Malawi, and Algeria secured direct qualification, while South Africa and Ghana advanced to the preliminary stage of the World Cup playoff pathway.
As the curtain falls on WAFCON 2026, Morocco can look back on another major tournament successfully delivered, and forward to an even bigger future for women's football.
The stadiums may now fall quiet, but the legacy of a landmark WAFCON in Morocco will continue to echo across African football.