Ashleigh Plumptre criticises CAF over WAFCON 2026 Postponement

Ashleigh Plumptre has strongly criticised the decision to postpone the 2026 edition of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, describing the move as unfair to women’s football in Africa.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed on Thursday that the tournament would be moved from its original dates of March 17–April 3 to July 25–August 16, citing “unforeseen circumstances.”

Speaking in a video interview shared by BBC Sport, the Super Falcons defender expressed frustration with the late decision.

“It just wouldn’t happen for other tournaments in women’s football and especially in men’s football,” Plumptre said.

“This has been a big deal for many teams. Many have not even played in the Afcon before, never mind having the chance to qualify for a World Cup,” she explained.

The 2026 tournament is expected to be a landmark edition as it will feature 16 teams for the first time, expanding from the previous 12-team format.