From July 26 to August 16, 2026, Morocco will host the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). According to the official schedule released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), a total of 34 matches will take place across five stadiums located in Rabat and Casablanca. This arrangement not only highlights Morocco's sporting infrastructure but also provides a modern setting for the elite of African women's football.
Five Venues for 34 Matches
The Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco will be held across five stadiums, with three located in Rabat and two in Casablanca. In Rabat, the Stade Moulay El Hassan will serve as the focal point of the competition. It is set to host the Moroccan national team's three group matches against Kenya, Algeria, and Senegal, along with a quarter-final, a semi-final, and the grand final scheduled for August 16 at 8:00 PM.
Additionally, the Stade Olympique in Rabat will play a significant role, accommodating multiple group stage matches, the second semi-final, and the match for third place. The Stade Al Madina rounds out the capital's offerings by hosting matches from Group C and one quarter-final.
Casablanca at the Heart of the Competition
As the economic hub of Morocco, Casablanca will also play a crucial role in the tournament with two stadiums in action. The Stade Moulay Rachid will host several group stage matches, particularly those from Group B, as well as a quarter-final. This renovated venue is set to return to the spotlight of major continental competitions.
Furthermore, the Stade Larbi Zaouli will contribute to the tournament by featuring matches from Groups B and D, a quarter-final, and two playoff matches qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027.
Rabat's match distribution highlights its central role in this edition, hosting matches from Group A, where Morocco will compete, as well as those from Group C, both semi-finals, the third-place match, and the final. Meanwhile, Casablanca will focus on matches from Groups B and D, two quarter-finals, and the qualifying playoffs for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
This focused approach on Rabat and Casablanca allows Morocco to leverage modern infrastructures and minimize travel distances between venues, ensuring optimal conditions for the sixteen qualified teams. Having successfully hosted several continental and international competitions in recent years, Morocco reaffirms its capability to organize major events in African football. The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations will also mark a significant step in preparing for the upcoming major events, particularly the 2030 World Cup.
As reported by lopinion.ma.
